Cancer stem cells in cholangiocarcinoma: emerging roles as therapeutic targets

Abstract

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly aggressive liver cancer associated with a poor prognosis. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play critical roles in CCA by driving tumor initiation, metastasis, recurrence, and treatment resistance. CSCs possess unique properties, including self-renewal, quiescence, and metabolic plasticity, enabling them to evade conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. Several key CCA stem cell markers are involved in interactions with immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and in metabolic adaptations that support CSC survival and resistance through complex mechanisms. Despite advancements in chemotherapy and targeted therapies, CSCs remain a major challenge in CCA treatment. In this review, we summarize new insights, updated information, emerging therapeutic strategies, and future directions for CSC research in CCA.

Keywords

Cholangiocarcinoma / cancer stem cells / bile duct / liver

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