Carcinogenesis and Cancer-Related Genes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts regarding carcinogenesis and the genetic factors contributing to cancer development, providing a foundational understanding for studying cancer biology.

Carcinogenesis

The process of development of cancer, involving initiation, promotion, and progression.

Initiation

The first key event in carcinogenesis involving an initiating factor that prompts DNA mutation.

Promotion

The second key event in carcinogenesis, enhancing the growth of transformed cells.

Progression

The final stage of carcinogenesis characterized by irreversible cellular changes leading to malignant cells.

Proto-oncogenes

Genes that regulate normal cell growth; mutations can turn them into oncogenes that promote uncontrolled cell proliferation.

Oncogenes

Mutated proto-oncogenes that facilitate unregulated cell proliferation.

Tumor Suppressor Genes

Genes that prevent cell proliferation and tumor formation; mutations lead to cancer.

DNA Repair Genes

Genes responsible for repairing DNA damage; mutations increase cancer risk.

Telomerase

An enzyme that maintains telomere length, allowing continued cell division and proliferation.

Familial Cancer Syndromes

Cancer predispositions inherited through family lineage often due to inactivated tumor suppressor genes.

Point Mutations

Alterations in the DNA sequence affecting gene function, potentially leading to cancer.

Chromosomal Amplification

Duplication of parts of a chromosome, resulting in increased activity of oncogenes.

Chromosomal Translocation

Movement of a chromosomal segment to another location, potentially disrupting gene function.

P53 Protein

A vital tumor suppressor protein regulated by the TP53 gene that promotes DNA repair and apoptosis.

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death which, when disabled, allows immortalized cancer cells to proliferate.

Cell Proliferation

The process by which cells divide and multiply, often increased in cancerous cells.

Neoplasia

The process of abnormal and excessive cell growth, leading to tumor formation.