Biology/what is cancer?
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Question
what is the cause the canser?
Dear Sameer,
A cancer cell is formed when a combination of mutations of normal genes occurs to disrupt two very important functions of the cell:
1. The ability to regulate its own growth and division
2. The ability to self-destruct (apoptosis, or programmed cell death)
A cell with mutations to genes that allow it to control its own growth will become very prolific, dividing and growing out of control. If it also has mutations that disable its normal function of cell death (apoptosis), it becomes immortal.
A highly proliferative, immortal cell is a cancer cell, born of a combination of mutations that destroy the cell's normal ability to control its growth and death.
Hope this helps.
Dana
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Answers by Expert:
Dana Krempels, Ph.D.
Expertise
I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!
Experience
At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).
Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980).
I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.
Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.
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