Russia Improves Detection of Cancer Stem Cells Allowing for Better Treatment

The scientists from the Institute of Cytology and Genetics (ICG) of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences have discovered capabilities of cancer stem cells (CSC) that could contribute to easier detection and targeting of such cells for better treatment of the disease, ICG's press service said.

NOVOSIBIRSK (Sputnik) — According to the statement, during the study of the CSC the ICG scientists have found out the capability of such cells to absorb the extracellular elements of the DNA. The discovered feature allowed scientists to label the CSC.

"New strategy of treatment based on a detected natural mechanism of absorption by cells of the DNA fragments could be applicable to the majority of cancer types. But separate regulations should be created in any new case," the statement said, adding that the results with the cells affected by such form of cancer as glioblastoma had already given positive results.

The statement added that the technology provides scientists with an opportunity to monitor the efficiency of treatment, as well as to target the CSC, which could be the cause of the disease, with anticancer drugs.