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The evolutionary cancer gene network theory versus embryogenic hypotheses
1Diedorf, Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany. vladimir.niculescu@yahoo.com.
Medical Oncology (Northwood, London, England)
|March 9, 2023
Summary
The evolutionary gene network theory best explains cancer development by comparing it to embryogenesis and gametogenesis. This theory refutes the idea that cancer originates from early embryonic cells.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Developmental biology
- Cancer research
Background:
- Cancer development shares similarities with gametogenesis and embryogenesis.
- Several hypotheses exist regarding cancer origins, including embryonic rest, VSEL, p-ESC, and PGCC-life cycle theories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the evolutionary cancer gene-network theory with various embryogenic hypotheses.
- To evaluate the explanatory power of each theory regarding cancer and embryonic development.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of theoretical statements.
- Literature review of evolutionary cancer gene-network theory and embryogenic hypotheses.
Main Results:
- The evolutionary gene network theory provides a satisfactory explanation for homologies between carcinogenesis, tumorigenesis, metastasis, gametogenesis, and early embryogenesis.
- Embryogenic hypotheses do not adequately explain these evolutionary connections.
Conclusions:
- The evolutionary gene network theory is superior in explaining the links between cancer and embryonic development.
- Cancer's origin is unlikely to be linked to early embryonic life from an evolutionary perspective.
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