Cancer Stem Cells

Until recently, researchers supposed all cancerous cells were capable of sustaining tumor growth, but that idea is now coming into question.  A newer interpretation holds that only certain malignant cells-so called “cancer stem cells”-drive the tumor, which might explain why anticancer drugs don’t always kill thoroughly. If so, drugs that target these stem cells could destroy the disease to its roots.  MORE

Image Credit: Kimberly Hartwell and Technology Review