title: Evolutionary theory, regeneration and cancer.
abstract: Three central problems for biology that remain unsolved are: a complete understanding of macroevolution, the problem of morphogenesis, i.e., the regulation of differentiation during development (related to this is the problem of regeneration), and the sequential maladaptation of these developmental processes, neoplasia. Combined breakthroughs in molecular cytogenetics concerning the "transposable elements" in the evolving genone, and the cellular transforming genes ("oncogenes") implicated in certain neoplastic diseases, add dimension to the discussion about the occurrence of "fetal" or anestral products of anaplastic cells. It is theorized that hormones are a major factor in the non-random regulation of cellular heterochrony in tumourigenesis. What is offered here is a theoretical overview of some current trends in the evolutionary sciences. Some ideas (old and new) on regeneration research will be discussed, and an attempt will be made to integrate those notions underlying hormonal oncology which suggest that there is a common thread woven through these problems, creating the fabric of biological change.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D005075:Biological Evolution; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D004251:DNA Transposable Elements; D006133:Growth Substances / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D006706:Homeostasis; D006728:Hormones / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D009024:Morphogenesis; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D009857:Oncogenes; D012038:Regeneration
chemical_list: D004251:DNA Transposable Elements; D006133:Growth Substances; D006728:Hormones