Regulation of cancer stem-like cell differentiation by Smac mimetics.
Small-molecule antagonists of inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins such as Smac mimetics are considered promising cancer therapeutics through the engagement of cell death pathways. Recent evidence suggests that Smac mimetics perform additional nonapoptotic functions by initiating differentiation in cancer stem-like cells, opening new perspectives for their future clinical application.
Institute for Experimental Cancer Research in Pediatrics; Goethe-University ; Frankfurt, Germany.
Simone
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Fulda
IAP proteins; Smac mimetic; cancer stem cells; differentiation