The mechanism of BMI1 in regulating cancer stemness maintenance, metastasis, chemo- and radiation resistance

Abstract

BMI1 is involved in the occurrence and development of many types of cancer through a variety of signaling pathways. BMI1, which is overexpressed in cancer, is often associated with chemo- and radiation resistance and poor prognosis in cancer patients. This article reviews the current understanding of the mechanism of BMI1 in maintaining tumor stemness, promoting metastasis, and inducing chemo- and radiation resistance, aiming at providing updated information supportive of targeting BMI1 in cancer treatment.