VIBS 222: Multistage Carcinogenesis/ Endocrine Disruptors

Does OBESITY play a role in cancer?

yes, increases risk for inflammation

What happens in promotion when there are changes in GENE EXPRESSION?

increase in ODC

TGFa and b

interleukins etc.

What happens in promotion regarding HYPERPLASIA?

increase in proliferation

differentiation

What is the TWO-HIT HYPOTHESIS?

two hits or mutations are necessary to inactivate both alleles of a tumor suppressor gene

What is the FIRST HIT?

inherited mutation (germline) or acquired (somatic)

What is the SECOND HIT?

mutation occurs in a somatic cell leading to complete inactivation of a TS gene

What is LOSS OF HETEROZYGOSITY?

loss of one allele of a gene where the other allele was already inactivated or mutated

What can LOH lead to?

inactivation of tumor suppressor genes

What is INITATION in LOH?

genetic mutation or damage occurs in a cell

What is PROMOTION in LOH?

cell with initial mutation undergoes clonal expansion, increasing likelihood of additional genetic changes

What is PROGRESSION in LOH?

LOH can occur and lead to inactivation of TS

In the context of MULTISTAGE CARCINOGENESIS, which event must occur first?

initiation

Which xenobiotic was responsible for increased SCROTAL cancer in chimney sweeps in the 1700s?

PAHs (polyaromatic hydrocarbons)

What is a PESTICIDE?

chemical used to kill, repel, or control forms of animal and plant life seen to damage or be a nuisance to agriculture/domestic life

What are the 3 KINDS of pesticides?

herbicides

insecticides

fungicides

What is a HERBICIDE?

chemical that destroys/controls weeds/ unwanted vegetation

What is an INSECTICIDE?

a chemical used to kill/control insects

What is a FUNGICIDE?

chemical used to kill/control fungi

What are PLASTICIZERS/PTHALATES?

chemicals that are added to materials to make them softer, more flexible, and less viscous

What are some COMMON pthalates?

plastics

food packaging

toys

medical devices