Biochemistry 2280A Lecture Notes - Lecture 28: Antibody, Multiple Drug Resistance, Telomere
23 Apr 2016
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Document Summary
Cancer is: the leading cause of death in north america. Is becoming more prevalent as the population ages. Cancer is caused by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells. Cancer is characterized by genetic and biochemical defects. Biochemistry and molecular biology provide avenues for cures. Tumor types (left: fig 23-3) benign tumors are encapsulated and contained within the tissue. It does not spread and can be removed surgically. Benign tumors arise from cells which only have 1 of the 2 properties of cancer cells; the property to divide uncontrollably under normal constraints. Malignant tumors are abnormal cells which migrate and spread. 2nd property of cancer as well; the ability to invade and colonize territories normally reserved for other cells. Metastasis: malignant tumours can metastasize, that is spread from their primary site to one or more secondary sites. Different cancers tend to spread to different sites. Common sites of spread are to the bones, liver, and lungs.
