NFR-funded Centre for Research-based Innovation

Stem cell properties are frequently hijacked by cancer cells because they provide a number of abilities that are dangerous in the wrong hands. These include resistance to radio- and chemotherapy, motility, invasiveness, and self-renewal. In recent years it has become apparent that in many cases tumours contain a small fraction of stem-like cells with such properties, that give rise to the bulk of tumour cells which may be easier to eradicate. Since most methods and studies report the average properties of cancer cells, a whole new field has emerged, where sophisticated methods taken from the stem cell field are used to dissect subpopulations of cancer cells and characterise them to enable targeting also of this type of cells. The inability to kille this minor cell population may explain why many cancers reappear after apparent cure for the original tumour.

We have established a research centre focusing on such studies, where a number of academic groups work together with industry partners to attack this complex issue. OM is Assistant Director of the CAST Cancer Stem Cell Innovation Centre.

After a positive mid-term evaluation, we now hope to be extended for another 3 years.