MiRNA-mediated EMT and CSCs in cancer chemoresistance

Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small group of cancer cells, which contribute to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Cancer cells undergoing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) acquire the chemoresistant ability, which is regarded as an important feature of CSCs. Thus, there emerges...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Bing Dong, Shiyu Li, Shuangli Zhu, Ming Yi, Suxia Luo, Kongming Wu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2021-02-01
Series:Experimental Hematology & Oncology
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s40164-021-00206-5
Description
Summary:Abstract Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small group of cancer cells, which contribute to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Cancer cells undergoing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) acquire the chemoresistant ability, which is regarded as an important feature of CSCs. Thus, there emerges an opinion that the generation of CSCs is considered to be driven by EMT. In this complex process, microRNAs (miRNAs) are found to play a key role. In order to overcome the drug resistance, inhibiting EMT as well as CSCs phenotype seem feasible. Thereinto, regulating the EMT- or CSCs-associated miRNAs is a crucial approach. Herein, we conduct this review to elaborate on the complicated interplay between EMT and CSCs in cancer chemoresistance, which is modulated by miRNAs. In addition, we elucidate the therapeutic strategy to overcome drug resistance through targeting EMT and CSCs.
ISSN:2162-3619