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Role of programmed cell death in carcinogenesis
1Johns Hopkins Oncology Center, Baltimore, MD 21231.
Abstract:
Cells possess within their repertoire of genetic programs the ability not only to proliferate and be functionally active, but also to activate and undergo a process of self-induced destruction. This process, called programmed cell death, involves a genetic reprogramming of the cell that results in an energy-dependent cascade of biochemical and morphological changes within the cell that result in its death and elimination. Activation of this programmed death process is controlled by a series of endogenous cell-type-specific signals. In addition, a variety of exogenous cell-damaging treatments (e.g., radiation, chemicals, and viruses) can activate this pathway if sufficient injury to the cell occurs. Because a cell must undergo a series of molecular changes to acquire the malignant phenotype and because these changes are often induced by agents or treatment that damage the cell over an extended period of time, anything that enhances the survival of initiated/damaged cells will promote the carcinogenic process. This paper presents an overview of the regulation and mechanism of programmed cell death and how derangement of this regulation may be involved in carcinogenesis.
Insights
Programmed cell death, a self-induced cell destruction process, is genetically controlled. Disruption of this process can promote cancer development by enhancing damaged cell survival.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Cells have intrinsic genetic programs for proliferation, function, and self-destruction.
- Programmed cell death involves genetic reprogramming, leading to energy-dependent biochemical and morphological changes for cell elimination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of programmed cell death regulation and mechanisms.
- To explore the involvement of programmed cell death dysregulation in carcinogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Review of endogenous and exogenous factors controlling programmed cell death.
- Analysis of molecular changes associated with malignant transformation and cell damage.
Main Results:
- Programmed cell death is an active, genetically regulated process.
- Both internal signals and external damage (radiation, chemicals, viruses) can trigger cell death.
- Enhanced survival of initiated/damaged cells promotes cancer.
Conclusions:
- Dysregulation of programmed cell death pathways is implicated in cancer development.
- Understanding programmed cell death mechanisms is crucial for cancer research.