Figure 9. Withaferin A induces cellular senescence and prevents tumor initiating ability in CSC-like cells.

Schematic presentation depicting how Withaferin A (WA) can prevent CSC stemness and tumor progression. WA enhances p21^Cip1 expression and suppresses the expression of an EMT-related transcription factor Twist. This event initiates cellular senescence program in CSC-like cells. In addition, the persistent activation of mitogenic pathways such as mTOR and/or MAPK/MEK may drive geroconversion from cell cycle arrest to senescence. Consequently, WA can abrogate CSC properties including tumor-initiating ability.