Enriched CD44+/CD24− population drives the aggressive phenotypes presented in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)

• CD44+/CD24− population from TNBC showed cancer stem cell phenotype.
• CD44+/CD24− population was enriched in the TNBC compared to non-TNBC.
• CD44+/CD24− population from cell line showed aggressive malignant behaviors.

The mechanism underlying the aggressive behaviors of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is not well characterized yet. The association between cancer stem cell (CSC) population and the aggressive behaviors of TNBC has not been established. We found the CD44+/CD24− cell population was enriched in TNBC tissues and cell lines, with a higher capacity of proliferation, migration, invasion and tumorigenicity as well as lower adhesion ability. The CD44+/CD24− cell population with cancer stem cell-like properties may play an important role in the aggressive behaviors of TNBC. This discovery may lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting CD44+/CD24− cell population in TNBC.