Abstract

Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models have emerged as a powerful tool in cancer research, providing a clinically relevant platform for studying cancer stem cells (CSCs). These models retain the histological and genetic characteristics of the original tumors, allowing researchers to investigate tumor heterogeneity, treatment resistance, and metastasis. PDX models enable the identification of CSC-specific markers and pathways, facilitating the development of targeted therapies. Furthermore, they serve as an essential preclinical model for evaluating novel therapeutics and predicting patient responses. This review discusses the significance of PDX models in CSC research, their advantages and limitations, and their potential in advancing precision oncology.