Klin Onkol 2006; 19(2): 149-152.
Summary
At present, tumors are frequently considered as a disease associated with stem cells. Special attention is dedicated to tissue reparation and carcinogenesis. Some processes connected with normal regulation of tissue reparation may be related to carcinogenesis. Stem cells and tumor cells share many identical features and now evidence has been presented that microenvironment, cytokine, and signaling pathways regulate tissue homeostasis and may also contribute to carcinogenesis. The theory of the cellular origin of cancer is important, but it is not sufficient to explain the process of carcinogenesis. Up to the present day, however, the real relationship between normal and tumor cells has not been elucidated. If we wish to consider the relationship of the tissue-specific stem cells with cancer, then we need to learn how to prevent tumor onset without completely blocking normal tissue regeneration. Recent experimental results indicate that stem cells and tumor stem cells may play akey role in carcinogenesis. This review represents an introductory discussion to carcinogenesis. Understanding the cues that stimulate stem cells activation may lead to prophylactic approaches in therapy and possible prevention of tumors.
