Stem-like cells in benign tumours

Tumor 'Stem-like Cells' Exist In Benign Tumors, ScienceDaily, July 22, 2009. First paragraph:

Cancer stem-like cells have been implicated in the genesis of a variety of malignant cancers. Research scientists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center's Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute have isolated stem-like cells in benign (pituitary) tumors and used these "mother" cells to generate new tumors in laboratory mice. Targeting the cells of origin is seen as a possible strategy in the fight against malignant and benign tumors.

Based on the publication: Isolation of tumour stem-like cells from benign tumours by Qijin Xu and 10 co-authors, including John S Yu, Br J Cancer 2009(Jul 21); 101(2): 303-11 [Epub 2009(Jun 30)]. Final section of PubMed Abstract:

CONCLUSION: This study for the first time indicates that stem-like cells are present in benign tumours. The conclusions from this study may have applications to understanding pituitary tumour biology and therapies, as well as implications for the notion of tumour-initiating cells in general.