Tumor-initiating cells (TICs) are a type of cancer cell that is able to start the process of tumorigenesis, or cancer development. These cells are thought to be responsible for the initiation and progression of many types of cancers.
TICs are believed to arise from normal cells that acquire genetic mutations that allow them to grow and divide uncontrollably. These mutated cells then begin to form tumors. TICs are often resistant to conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which makes them difficult to treat.
There is currently no sure way to identify TICs in a patient’s body. However, researchers are working on developing methods to detect and target these cells. In the future, targeting TICs may be an effective way to treat and prevent cancer.