Molecular aspects of the mammalian cell cycle and cancer

Oncologist. 2002;7(1):73-81. doi: 10.1634/theoncologist.7-1-73.

Abstract

Cancer arises mainly from mutations in somatic cells. However, it is not the result of a single mutation, rather, it results from increasing genetic disarray accumulated over time. Tumorigenesis in humans is, therefore, a multistep and age-dependent process. The multiple mechanisms and multiple players involved in this process necessitate an understanding of the molecular mechanisms, in order to distinctively classify the tumor sample and to assess the risk and treatment of the disease.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Cycle / genetics
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinases / genetics
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinases / physiology*
  • Cyclins / genetics
  • G1 Phase / genetics*
  • Gene Expression
  • Genes, Tumor Suppressor / physiology
  • Genes, p53 / physiology
  • Humans
  • Mammals
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Proto-Oncogenes / physiology
  • Retinoblastoma Protein / physiology

Substances

  • Cyclins
  • Retinoblastoma Protein
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinases