Cancer genetics and development

Term

Definition

Adenoma

A benign tumour originating from glandular epithelium.

Adenocarcinoma

A malignant tumour originating from glandular epithelium.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death, a controlled process of cell self-destruction.

β-catenin

A key protein in the Wnt signalling pathway, acting as a transcription factor when translocated to the nucleus.

Carcinoma

A malignant tumour originating from epithelial tissue.

Colonic Crypts

Tubular invaginations in the lining of the colon containing stem cells and responsible for epithelial renewal.

Differentiation

The process by which cells become specialized in structure and function.

Dysplasia

Abnormal cell growth and development, often a precursor to cancer.

E-cadherin

A cell adhesion protein involved in maintaining epithelial integrity. Loss of E-cadherin is associated with increased cell motility and invasiveness.

Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)

An inherited condition characterized by numerous polyps in the colon, caused by germline mutations in the APC gene.

Frizzled (Fz)

A transmembrane receptor for Wnt proteins.

Goblet cells

Specialized cells in the epithelium that secrete mucus.

LGR5

A marker for stem cells in the colonic crypts.

Malignant Tumour

A cancerous tumour that can invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to distant sites.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer cells from the primary tumour to other parts of the body.

Polyp

An abnormal growth of tissue projecting from a mucous membrane, often benign but can progress to cancer.

Proliferation

Cell division and multiplication.

Ras

An oncogene involved in cell signalling pathways that regulate cell growth and proliferation. Mutations in Ras can lead to uncontrolled cell division.

Stem Cells

Undifferentiated cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types.

Tumour Suppressor Gene (TSG)

A gene that normally helps control cell growth and division. Mutations in TSGs can increase the risk of cancer development.

Wnt Signalling Pathway

A crucial signalling pathway regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and other cellular processes. Disruptions in this pathway are implicated in various diseases, including cancer.