The role of cancer stem cells in pathogenesis of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer, accounting for about 10% of total adult malignancies worldwide. The majority of CRC cases are diagnosed at the late stage; thus the investigation of the pathogenesis of early-stage disease and its detection could prevent formation of metastasis, a leading cause of death. This review highlights the recent progress in the understanding of the development of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in the colon epithelium and mechanisms of their proliferation. Moreover, we describe the role of the CSCs in resistance to chemotherapy and formation of metastases. We present evidence for the importance of the interactions between CSCs and their environment in the propagation of the disease. It is hoped that further studies of colorectal cancer CSCs could be helpful in the early detection and improved therapy of this neoplasm.