Characterization of sphere-propagating cells with stem-like properties from DU145 prostate cancer cells

►We characterized prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) derived from DU145 cells. ►PCSCs can be long-term cultured as spheres in the presence of only EGF. ►bFGF reduces the generation and propagation of spheres. ►The PI3K-AKT pathway does not play a major role in PCSC culture.