Identification and isolation of transitional cell carcinoma stem cells

Abstract

Transitional cell carcinoma stem cells (TCCSC) are identified. The cells can be prospectively isolated or identified from primary tumor samples, and are shown to possess the unique properties of cancer stem cells in functional assays for cancer stem cell self-renewal and differentiation, and in cancer diagnosis.

1 - 10 . (canceled) 
     
     
         11 . A composition of mammalian transitional cell carcinoma stem cells, wherein at least 50% of the cells in said composition are CD44 +  CK5 +  transitional cell carcinoma stem cells (TCCSC). 
     
     
         12 . (canceled) 
     
     
         13 . The composition according to  claim 11 , wherein the TCCSC have increased nuclear localization of β-catenin; Stat3; or Bmi-1. 
     
     
         14 . (canceled) 
     
     
         15 . A method of screening a candidate chemotherapeutic agent for effectiveness against an TCCSC, the method comprising:
 contacting said agent with the cell composition of  claim 11 , and   determining the effectiveness of said agent against said TCCSC.   
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 15 , further comprising classifying the TCCSC according to increased nuclear localization of β-catenin; Stat3; or Bmi-1 prior to said contacting.