Immunohistochemistry for cancer stem cells detection: Principles and methods

Abstract

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are rare immortal cells within a tumor that can self-renew and drive tumorigenesis. CSCs play a pivotal role in the tumor development, progression and relapse, as well as in the resistance of anticancer therapy. Different tools could help in the analysis of CSCs, especially Immunohistochemistry (IHC) represents a useful technique able to identify several specific CSC markers. The main aims of this chapter are the description of the explain immunohistochemical methods used in the characterization of CSCs. Furthermore, focus on the most common troubleshooting in CSCs IHC is provided, especially the pitfalls of the CSCs markers IHC on tissue microarrays.