Chapter 20: Cancer

Cancer

A complex and diverse group of diseases characterized by the abnormal growth and division of cells.

Metastasis

The process by which cancer cells invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body.

Carcinomas

Cancers that develop in epithelial tissues, which are the tissues that line the surfaces and cavities of organs.

Sarcomas

Cancers that arise from connective tissues, including bone, muscle, cartilage, and fat.

Leukemias

Cancers that affect the blood and bone marrow, resulting in abnormal production of white blood cells.

Lymphomas

Cancers that begin in the lymphatic system, which includes lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow.

Benign Tumors

Non-cancerous tumors that do not invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

Malignant Tumors

Cancerous tumors that have the potential to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body.

Oncogenes

Genes that, when mutated or overexpressed, promote cell growth and division.

Tumor Suppressor Genes

Genes that regulate cell growth and division and prevent the formation of tumors.

DNA Repair Genes

Genes involved in maintaining the integrity of the genome by repairing DNA damage.

Epigenetic Regulators

Genes that control gene expression patterns without altering the DNA sequence.

Signaling Pathway Genes

Genes involved in crucial signaling pathways that can be critical drivers of cancer.

Angiogenesis Genes

Genes involved in the formation of new blood vessels, which are essential for tumor growth and metastasis.

Cancer Prevention

Strategies and measures to reduce the risk of developing cancer.

Cancer Treatment

Various approaches and therapies used to treat cancer.

Oncogenes

Oncogenes are genes that, when mutated or overexpressed, promote cell growth and division.

Tumor suppressor genes

Tumor suppressor genes regulate cell growth and division and prevent the formation of tumors.

DNA Repair genes

DNA repair genes are involved in maintaining the integrity of the genome.

Epigenetic regulators

Epigenetic regulators control gene expression patterns without altering the DNA sequence.

Signaling Pathway Genes

Genes involved in crucial signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and MAPK pathway, can be critical drivers of cancer.

Angiogenesis

Angiogenesis genes are involved in the formation of new blood vessels, which are essential for tumor growth and metastasis.