How do cancer stem cells contribute to cancer progression?

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Cancer stem cells contribute to cancer progression primarily through their ability to self-renew and generate a diverse population of cells that comprise the tumor. This self-renewal capability allows these cells to maintain and expand the cancer, leading to increased tumor growth. As they differentiate into other types of tumor cells, they contribute to heterogeneity within the tumor, which can enhance its adaptability and resistance to treatment.

Additionally, the presence of cancer stem cells is often associated with the recurrence of tumors after treatment because they can survive conventional therapies designed to target rapidly dividing cells, ultimately giving rise to new cancerous growths. Therefore, the characteristics of self-renewal and the potential to drive tumorigenesis are key elements in understanding how cancer stem cells play a significant role in cancer progression.