DNA repair mechanisms in breast cancer stem cells

Abstract

Breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) are a small subset in heterogeneous breast cancer cell populations and are responsible for breast cancer initiation. BCSC have stem cell properties. The maintenance and propaganda of BCSC is controlled by an intrinsic stem cell signaling network and regulated by extrinsic environmental factors. BCSC are resistant to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The therapeutic resistance of BCSC derives from multiple mechanisms. In this chapter, we discussed the potential mechanisms for enhanced DNA repair of BCSC in the response to DNA damage.