Functional effects of SDF-1α on a CD44(+) CXCR4(+) squamous cell carcinoma cell line as a model for interactions in the cancer stem cell niche.

Stromal cell-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α), also known as CXCL12, has variable effects on a plurality of cells. It is known to have selective effects on cell migration, morphology, survival and cell homing. As such the SDF-1-CXCR4 axis is postulated to be a crucial key pathway in the interaction between (cancer) stem cells and their surrounding supportive cells, the so-called (cancer) stem cell niche.

Alteration of MMP-2 and -14 expression by imatinib in HPV-positive and -negative squamous cell carcinoma.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive epithelial malignancy. It is known to be the most common neoplasm appearing in the upper aerodigestive tract. The poor 5‑year survival rate has remained unchanged in the last decades even though improved techniques in surgery, radiation and chemotherapy have been established.