Biomedical engineering targeting cancer stem cells to reinforce cancer therapy

Abstract

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a small population of cells responsible for the initiation, relapse, and metastasis of tumors. These CSCs have garnered significant attention in therapeutic advancements because of their distinctive characteristics. The primary culprits contributing to the development and sustenance of CSCs include surface markers, an aberrant microenvironment, the activation of signaling pathways, and an immunosuppressive microenvironment. The application of biomedical engineering holds promises for enhancing precision targeting, thereby reducing side effects, fostering personalized treatment and immune responses, and facilitating combinatorial therapies. Consequently, biomedical engineering to target CSCs has substantial potential. This review elucidated the niche characteristics of CSCs and the use of biomedical engineering to target CSC characteristics, including surface markers, the microenvironment associated with CSCs, related signaling pathways, and differentiation therapy aimed at improving tumor treatment. In conclusion, we anticipate the integration of biomedical engineering into clinical practice to enhance treatment outcomes for tumors while minimizing recurrence and drug resistance.