Stem-like Cells in Bladder Cancer Cell Lines with Differential Sensitivity to Cisplatin

Background: Recurrence is a common problem in bladder cancer; this has been attributed to cancer stem cells. In this study, we characterized potential cancer stem cell populations isolated from three cell lines that demonstrate different responses to cisplatin. Materials and Methods: The ALDEFLUOR ® assay was used to isolate cells from TCCSUP, T24, and 5637 cell lines, and these cells were evaluated for their ability to form colonies, differentiate, migrate and invade. Results: The cell lines demonstrate a spectrum of aldehyde dehydrogenase high (ALDH High ) populations that correlate with resistance to cisplatin. In the two resistant cell lines, T24 and 5637, the ALDH High cells demonstrate increased colony formation, migration, invasion, and ability to differentiate. The resistant T24 and 5637 cell lines may serve as models to investigate alternative therapies for bladder cancer. Recurrence is a major issue in bladder cancer.