Introduction to Cancer

Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth

and spread of abnormal cells. It can develop in almost any part of the body and
has the ability to invade other tissues. Cancer cells can spread locally, through
the lymph system, or through the bloodstream to other parts of the body.
Understanding the molecular basis of cancer is crucial for developing effective
treatments and prevention strategies.

by 201BC006 Balaji.L
What is cancer at the molecular level?
Cell Proliferation Genetic Alterations Abnormal Cell Cycle

At the molecular level, cancer
begins when genetic changes
interfere with the normal
processes that control cell
growth and division.
These alterations can be caused As a result, cells begin to grow
by internal factors, such as uncontrollably, forming a mass of
inherited mutations, or external tissue known as a tumor.
factors, such as exposure to
carcinogens like tobacco smoke
or UV radiation.
Genetic Mutations and Cancer
1 Types of Mutations 2 Effects on Protein 3 Inherited Mutations
Function
Genetic mutations can be Some individuals inherit
classified into different These mutations can affect mutations that increase
types, including missense, the structure and function their risk of developing
nonsense, frameshift, and of proteins that are certain types of cancer.
silent mutations. essential for regulating cell
growth and division.
Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor
Genes
Oncogenes
1 These are genes that have the potential to cause cancer when mutated or expressed
at high levels.

Tumor Suppressor Genes

2 These genes normally prevent cells from growing and dividing too rapidly, and
mutations in these genes can lead to cancer.
Signaling Pathways in Cancer
Cell Growth Signaling Angiogenesis Metastasis
Abnormal activation of Cancer cells can induce the Altered signaling pathways
signaling pathways can formation of new blood can enable cancer cells to
promote uncontrolled cell vessels, providing them with invade nearby tissues and
growth and survival. nutrients and oxygen to spread to distant parts of the
support their growth. body.
The Role of Epigenetics in Cancer

1 2
DNA Methylation Histone Modification

3 4
MicroRNA Regulation Chromatin Remodeling
Cancer Immunology
Immune Evasion Some cancer cells can evade the immune
response, allowing them to continue growing
without being targeted by the body's defenses.

Immunotherapy Novel treatments harness the power of the

immune system to recognize and destroy cancer
cells, leading to promising outcomes.
Current and Future Treatments for Cancer
1 Targeted Therapies
These treatments focus on specific molecular alterations that are driving the growth and
spread of cancer cells.

2 Immunotherapy Advancements
New developments in immunotherapy are expanding treatment options and improving patient
outcomes.

3 Precision Medicine
Advancements in genomics and molecular profiling are paving the way for personalized cancer
treatment strategies.