Genetics of Cancer - General Principles

Abstract

In the process of evolution, organisms developed genetic mechanisms to control cellular growth and multiplication. Many different genes regulate cell cycle, DNA repair, and check for defective proteins, as well as tightly control the amount of cells in the tissue. Once this mechanism is compromised, the defective DNA may be transcribed and implemented into a cell, leading to production of abnormal cells. However, organisms developed yet another genetic mechanism to prevent abnormal cells from multiplying and invading the healthy tissues. Certain genes, the so-called tumor suppressor genes, induce death (apoptosis) of the cells that are in any way damaged, abnormal or aged. Cancer disrupts many or all of these protective mechanisms and leads to excessive accumulation of abnormal cells.

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• Genetic mechanisms leading to development of cancer
• Tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes
• Genetic mechanisms in sporadic cancers
• Genetic mechanisms in hereditary cancers

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