Role of Cellular Signaling in Cancer Development

Cellular signaling plays a crucial role in the development of cancer. Disruptions in signaling pathways can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, evasion of apoptosis, and the formation of tumors.

Signaling Pathways

Key signaling molecules and pathways drive cancer progression. Oncogenes promote cell proliferation, while tumor suppressor genes inhibit it.

Cell Cycle Regulation

Cell cycle regulation is often dysregulated in cancer. Growth factors, protein kinases, and various signaling pathways like MAPK, PI3K/AKT, Wnt, Notch, RTK, and JAK/STAT are commonly involved in cancer development.

Disrupted Signaling

Abnormal activation of these pathways can result in uncontrolled cell growth and survival, leading to tumor formation.

For example, mutations in genes encoding for components of the PI3K/AKT pathway can lead to increased cell survival and proliferation, contributing to tumor progression.

Understanding the intricate role of cellular signaling in cancer development is crucial for developing targeted therapies that can effectively disrupt these pathways and halt tumor growth.