Polymorphism of cellular physicochemical [correction of physiocochemical] features and cancer: a review.
The role of polymorphism of some physicochemical characteristics of cellular features in cancer are discussed. Data in the literature and our previous observations indicate that the probability of oncogenesis depends on the variability of these characteristics and the host's homeostasis and is manifested as a conflict between stability and variability of these features. In addition, a high degree of genetic polymorphism was associated with tumorigenesis. Changes in "behavior" of the p53 gene and an increase in the production of the soluble 51 kDa protein in cancer patients are examples of such changes. An organism and its cells can be considered as two interdependent systems which, in extreme situations become antagonistic and competitive. As such cancer develops mainly due to external effects. The last cause deep changes in the balance between stability and variability of physicochemical parameters of cellular features and result in some internal, including genomic, alterations. These culminate in cell death (apoptosis), or cause cells to begin a new stage in their lives, sometimes leading to tumors. In this respect, cancer can be regarded as a rescuer of the cells although it brings about the death of the host. We suggest that the variability of physicochemical features of cells is one of important reasons for the development of cancer.
Zusman
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Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel. zusmani@agri.huji.ac.il
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Kozlenko
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D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics* / Q000473:pathology; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic; D051381:Rats