016 Tumorigenesis: How Cancer Begins and How it Can End

For Whom the Cell Tolls: Cancer Biology and Other Stories

This episode covers the basics of how a cancer begins. Genetic mutations can often knock out genes responsible for keeping an eye on how many cell divisions are allowed. Once these are out of the way, aggressive growth genes can overcome them and cause initial tumor populations to form. After further successive survival advantages are gained, tumors eventually break free from their original organ/tissue and wreak havoc. Learning how to address the initial and final stages of cancer are key towards better clinical outcomes for all patients.