Cancer disease name origin
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Summary
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These studies suggest that cancer origins can be classified using developmental trajectories, deconvolution of tumors, and understanding cellular origins, while some studies suggest cancer may also be influenced by mitochondrial metabolic factors and evolutionary transitions.
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The Origin of Cancer Disease Names
Cancer Naming Based on Cell or Tissue of Origin
Cancer is a complex disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. The naming of cancers is traditionally based on the cell or tissue from which they originate. This classification system helps in understanding the nature of the malignancy and in devising appropriate treatment strategies. For instance, cancers originating from epithelial cells are termed carcinomas, while those from connective tissues are called sarcomas .
Developmental Deconvolution and Cancer Classification
Recent advancements in cancer research have led to the development of sophisticated tools for identifying the origins of tumors. One such tool is the Developmental Multilayer Perceptron (D-MLP) classifier, which maps single-cell organogenesis to the transcriptomes of thousands of tumors. This classifier has shown high accuracy in predicting the origin of cancers, even in challenging cases like cancers of unknown primary (CUP) . The D-MLP classifier outperforms traditional methods based on oncogene expression, providing a more precise understanding of tumor origins and aiding in diagnostic pathology.
Evolutionary and Metabolic Perspectives on Cancer Origin
The origin of cancer can also be viewed through the lens of evolutionary biology and metabolism. Some researchers propose that cancer may originate from major evolutionary transitions, such as the merger of glycolytic eukaryotic cells with oxidative mitochondria. This transition enabled cells to obtain higher energy levels, which may have contributed to the development of cancer. Additionally, the decline in NAD+ and ATP levels is considered a root cause of cancer, suggesting that restoring mitochondrial function could be crucial for cancer prevention .
Genetic and Cellular Origins of Cancer
Cancer is widely recognized as a genetic disease, with mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes playing a significant role in its development. However, the identification of the specific cells that acquire the initial genetic mutations is crucial for understanding tumorigenesis. Studies have shown that different subtypes of cancer within the same organ may originate from distinct cells of origin, which acquire the first genetic hits leading to cancer. This knowledge can help in early detection and targeted therapies.
Cancer in Non-Human Organisms
Interestingly, cancer is not limited to humans and other vertebrates. It has been observed in parasitic protozoans like Trypanosoma brucei and Toxoplasma gondii. These simpler organisms, with their complex life cycles, offer unique insights into the origins of cancer and may help in understanding the disease's mechanisms, particularly in leukemias.
Conclusion
Understanding the origins of cancer is fundamental to improving diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. From traditional naming based on tissue origin to advanced classifiers like D-MLP, and from evolutionary theories to genetic and metabolic perspectives, the study of cancer origins is multifaceted. Continued research in this area promises to unlock new avenues for combating this complex and devastating disease.
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