Neuro‐oncology research has rediscovered a complexity of nervous system cancers through the incorporation of cellular heterogeneity into tumor models with cellular subsets displaying stem‐cell characteristics. Self‐renewing cancer stem cells (CSCs) can propagate tumors and yield nontumorigenic tumor bulk cells that display a more differentiated phenotype. The ability to prospectively isolate and interrogate CSCs is defining molecular mechanisms responsible for the tumor maintenance and growth. The clinical relevance of CSCs has been supported by their resistance to cytotoxic therapies and their promotion of tumor angiogenesis. Although the field of CSC biology is relatively young, continued elucidation of the features of these cells holds promise for the development of novel patient therapies. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.