Cancer Heterogeneity Lecture Notes

A collection of vocabulary flashcards focused on cancer heterogeneity concepts discussed in the lecture.

Heterogeneity

Diversity; distinguishing characteristics among constituent parts of a whole or group.

Homogeneity

Similarity; characteristics that are shared among parts of a whole or group.

Clonal Evolution

The process by which cancer cells evolve and diverge from a common ancestor cell through mutations.

Cancer Stem Cell Hypothesis

The theory that a subpopulation of self-renewing cancer cells is capable of replication and differentiation.

Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT)

A biological process in which epithelial cells lose their cell polarity and adhesion to become mesenchymal stem cells.

Selective Pressure

Environmental factors that influence which genotypes are favorable and thus survive and reproduce.

Inter-individual heterogeneity

Variability in genetic information and expression of the cancer cells from one individual to another.

Driver Mutations

Genetic alterations that contribute to cancer onset and progression.

Phenotypic Variation

Differences in observable traits among cancer cells, despite sharing a common genetic origin.

Tumor Microenvironment

The environment surrounding a tumor which includes various cell types and extracellular matrix components.

Secondary Treatment Resistance

The phenomenon where cancer cells develop resistance to therapies that were initially effective.

Acquired Mutations

Genetic changes that occur after the initial cancer-causing mutations, impacting treatment responses.

Genotypic Variation

Variability in the genetic make-up of cancer cells leading to different behaviors and responses.

Natural Selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Mutation Burden

The total number of mutations present in the DNA of a tumor, which can influence treatment response.

EGFR Mutation

A specific genetic alteration in the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor that can drive certain cancers.

Immunotherapy

A treatment that uses the body's immune system to fight diseases like cancer.

Tumor-Infiltrating Leukocytes

Immune cells that have moved into the tumor microenvironment, affecting cancer progression.

Cancer Incidence Variation

Differences in cancer rates observed in different populations and regions.

5-Year Survival Rate

The percentage of patients who are alive five years after diagnosis and treatment for cancer.