Two states of myeloma stem cells

The identity of so-called malignant stem cells in multiple myeloma has long been controversial. However, it is now appreciated that a small population of myeloma cells has a stem-like capacity for self-renewal and resides within the population of recognizable myeloma plasma cells, although whether these cells are quiescent or proliferative remains unresolved. It is also now accepted that subpopulations of myeloma plasma cells alternate bidirectionally and dynamically between immature and mature phenotypes, and both subpopulations are capable of clonogenicity in vitro and in animal models.
Source: Clinical Lymphoma, Myeloma and Leukemia - Category: Hematology Authors: Tags: Perspective Source Type: research