The document summarizes research on identifying cells that initiate human malignant melanoma (MMICs). The key findings are: 1. ABCB5, an ATP-binding cassette transporter protein, is expressed in MMICs and closely associated with advanced melanoma. 2. ABCB5+ melanoma cells were able to initiate tumor formation in mice, while ABCB5- cells did not, indicating ABCB5+ cells drive melanoma progression. 3. Blocking ABCB5 using an antibody inhibited tumor growth in mice xenografts, suggesting ABCB5 is a potential therapeutic target for treating advanced melanoma.

1. Identification of Cells initiating Human Melanoma 17-January-08 Nature-06489 Kartheek Dokka

6. ABCB5+ vs ABCB5 ¯ 1 ° patient tumor cells NOD/SCID mice XenoTransplants ABCB5+ ABCB5- Unsegregated Repurification Secondary Tumor Formation Total: US -7/23, + :14/23, - :1/23 + :10/18 - :0/18 Immuno-Magnetic Separation