Source: New York Times
Date: December 21, 2007
Summary;
The New York Times reports researchers are testing whether cancer stem cells encourage and maintain the growth of cancer:
"Within the next few months, researchers at three medical centers expect to start the first test in patients of one of the most promising — and contentious — ideas about the cause and treatment of cancer. The idea is to take aim at what some scientists say are cancerous stem cells — aberrant cells that maintain and propagate malignant tumors."
However, other scientists believe using new drugs to treat cancer by killing cancerous stem cells could be a more effective strategy:
"At stake in the debate is the direction of cancer research. If proponents of the stem-cell hypothesis are correct, it will usher in an era of hope for curing once-incurable cancers. If the critics are right, the stem-cell enthusiasts are heading down a blind alley that will serve as just another cautionary tale in the history of medical research. In the meantime, though, proponents are looking for ways to kill the stem cells, and say that certain new drugs may be the solution."
