Carcinogenesis
Carcinogenesis is the multistage process by which normal cells acquire changes that enable them to become cancerous and form tumors.
Somatic mutation: A DNA sequence change acquired by a cell during an organism’s life rather than inherited from a parent. Mutations can alter genes that control cell growth, survival, and genome maintenance.
Cell cycle: The ordered series of phases through which a cell grows, copies its DNA, and divides. Carcinogenesis disrupts the controls that normally coordinate cell division.
Carcinogen: An agent capable of causing cancer by inducing or promoting changes in cells. Chemical, physical, and biological carcinogens can initiate or accelerate carcinogenesis.
Tumorigenesis: The formation and growth of a tumor, which may be benign or malignant. Carcinogenesis specifically concerns cancer, while tumorigenesis also includes benign tumors.
Cancer prevention: Measures that reduce the likelihood of cancer developing or lower its population burden. Reducing carcinogen exposure can interrupt the process before malignant tumors form.
Oncogene: A gene whose abnormal activation can promote uncontrolled cell growth or survival. Carcinogenesis can activate proto-oncogenes, giving affected cells a growth advantage.
DNA repair: Cellular processes that detect and correct damage to DNA. Repair defects allow DNA lesions to persist and contribute to mutations.
Tobacco smoking: The inhalation of smoke produced by burning tobacco products. Tobacco smoke contains carcinogens linked to mutations and multiple cancer types.
Cancer progression: The evolution of an established cancer toward greater growth, invasion, or treatment resistance. Carcinogenesis includes the development of cancer; progression describes changes after malignancy is established.
Chemoprevention: The use of drugs or other agents to reduce cancer risk or delay its development. Interventions can target early changes in carcinogenesis before clinical cancer appears.