CSCs are often identified and isolated based on specific markers that distinguish them from other tumor cells. Common markers include CD44, CD133, ALDH1, and EpCAM. Techniques such as flow cytometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) are used to isolate CSCs based on these markers. Additionally, functional assays like sphere formation and tumorigenicity in animal models are employed to confirm the stem-like properties of these cells.
