Alfa Cytology offers CSC induction services to obtain sufficient functional CSC populations. Our services provide adequate quantities and relative stability of CSCs and facilitate the success of our global clients in developing CSC-targeted therapeutic programs.
Overview of Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cell
Pancreatic CSCs (or stem-like cells) have been identified through various cellular and animal models as potential cancer-inducing cells capable of initiating new tumor tissue. These cells were first demonstrated in 2007 and account for 0.5~1.0% of all pancreatic cancer cells.
Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cell Characteristics
Pancreatic CSCs have the characteristics of CSCs, expressing cell surface markers CD44, CD24, and epithelial-specific antigens (ESA/EpCAM). Other markers, such as CD133, c-Met, ALDH1, DclK1, CXCR4, and Lgr5, have also been used to identify pancreatic CSCs. Moreover, pancreatic CSCs upregulate important developmental genes (SHH and BMI-1) that maintain normal stem cell self-renewal, with self-renewal and multilineage differentiation properties. Signaling cascades essential in tumor metastasis are also upregulated in pancreatic CSC.
Fig. 1 Diagram of different cancer stem cell populations in pancreatic cancer. (Barman, S.; et al., 2021)
Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cell Chemoresistance
Pancreatic CSCs are highly resistant and can survive conventional treatments that interfere with complete tumor eradication. Inactivation of drug metabolism, drug efflux from cells, and mutation or deregulation of drug targets are common mechanisms of chemoresistance in CSCs. Besides, the specific pancreatic CSC microenvironment and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process are also considered to contribute to drug resistance.
Fig. 2 The CSC-mediated mechanism highlights treatment resistance in pancreatic cancer. (Patil, K.; et al., 2021)
As a new and potential research hotspot in cancer research, many scientists need to find and identify tumor cell populations with stem cell-like properties as a possible source of metastasis and treatment resistance. However, the challenges lie in identifying pancreatic CSCs and understanding their specific mechanisms.
Our Services
Alfa Cytology has an in-depth understanding of pancreatic cancer cell and CSC assays. We offer sufficient numbers of CSCs for research based on skillful experts and proven methods. Our service is based on a heterochromatin modulation approach that reprograms cancer cells by modulating chromatin structure using small molecule compounds. After a few days of processing, the induced cells will be carefully identified and screened. We offer a full range of pancreatic CSC identification to ensure the cells meet the project requirements.
- Sphere-forming assays
- Tumorigenicity in vivo
- Characterization of induced sphere cells
- Functional features of induced sphere cells
Applications of Our Services
- Further exploration of the molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation, progression, and maintenance of pancreatic cancer
- Discovery of new molecular targets driving pancreatic cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis that can be used as new therapeutic or treatment targets
- Preclinical evaluation of new anticancer drugs and strategies for pancreatic cancer
- Screening and identification of new validated biomarkers for early detection of pancreatic cancer
Process of Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cell Induction
Cell culture
The human pancreatic cancer cell lines such as Panc1 and Bxpc3 are cultured in a specific medium.
Sphere cell Induction
The induction medium is a stem cell base medium with the addition of supplements, inhibitors, etc.
Analysis
Flow cytometric, immunofluorescence, gene expression, sensitivity, Cell proliferation
Xenograft tumorigenicity assay
Cell xenotransplantation animal experiments detected the tumor formation.
Why Choose Us?
Scientific Experience
Professional team of scientists and more than ten years of experience in pancreatic cancer
Customized Service
Tailored services dedicated to ensuring customer satisfaction
Data Security
Strictly keep confidential the client's project information and experimental data
Quick Reply
Our customer service representatives are available 24 hours a day from Monday to Sunday
Alfa Cytology can efficiently prepare pancreatic CSCs, contributing to pancreatic CSC-targeted therapy development and personalized therapeutic approach development based on CSC heterogeneity. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us. We are looking forward to working on your projects!
References
- Barman, S.; et al. Pancreatic Cancer and Therapy: Role and Regulation of Cancer Stem Cells. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22, 4765. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22094765
- Patil, K., et al. The plasticity of pancreatic cancer stem cells: implications in therapeutic resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev. 2021, 40, 691–720. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10555-021-09979-x
