ABCB5 expression and cancer stem cell hypothesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma

For the first time, this study provides evidence that ABCB5 expression in OSCC might be associated with tumour formation, metastasis and a putative CSC compartment. One of the principal mechanisms for protecting putative cancer stem cells is through the expression of multifunctional efflux transporters from the ABC gene family, like ABCB5. This provides one mechanism in which putative cancer stem cells could survive and may lead to tumour relapse. Knowledge of expression profiles of ABC transporters and other genes involved in MDR will likely help therapeutic optimisation for cancer patients in clinic. However, this hypothesis requires further in vitro and in vivo studies.