Cannot Target What Cannot Be Seen: Molecular Imaging of Cancer Stem Cells

Cancer stem cells are known to play a key role in tumour development, proliferation, and metastases. Their unique properties confer resistance to therapy, often leading to treatment failure. It is believed that research into the identification, targeting, and eradication of these cells can revolutionise oncological treatment. Based on the principle that what cannot be seen, cannot be targeted, a primary step in cancer management is the identification of these cells. The current review aims to encompass the state-of-the-art functional imaging techniques that enable the identification of cancer stem cells via various pathways and mechanisms. The paper presents in vivo molecular techniques that are currently available or await clinical implementation. Challenges and future prospects are highlighted to open new research avenues in cancer stem cell imaging.

Automated summary

Cancer stem cells are crucial in tumor development, growth, and spread. Their unique properties make them resistant to treatment, often leading to therapy failure. Research into identifying, targeting, and eliminating these cells is believed to revolutionize oncology treatment. This review discusses state-of-the-art functional imaging techniques for identifying cancer stem cells through various pathways and mechanisms. It presents in vivo molecular techniques that are currently available or awaiting clinical implementation while highlighting challenges and future prospects for cancer stem cell imaging.