title: Discontinuity in the competitive interaction of tumor cells with the tumor-bearing host--a hypotheses.
abstract: The hypothesis put forward here is that during the growth of a primary tumor ending in metastasis formation, phases occur in which 'unfavourable' conditions arise for the tumor cells. It is proposed that, in order to overcome these 'unfavourable' situations, the tumor cells subsequently secrete a substance designed to have a 'dysfunctional' effect on the normal cells. On the assumption of such a discontinuous secretion by the tumor cells, an investigation is made into the behaviour of certain tumors in humans, together with the findings of previously conducted tests. This leads to the formulation of possible concepts for prophylaxis and treatment. In conclusion, an attempt is made to locate what would be the precise target of such a hypothetical substance.
authors.forename: Z
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Douvlis
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis / Q000503:physiopathology; D009365:Neoplasm Regression, Spontaneous; D009368:Neoplasm Transplantation; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*