Do helminths play a role in carcinogenesis?
Chronic helminthiasis is recognized as a significant factor in cancer development in humans. However, the mechanisms by which helminths initiate and promote malignant transformation of host cells are still not understood fully. Human helminthiasis can cause genetic instability and affect inter- and intracellular communication, ultimately leading to tumour development through inflammation, modulation of the host immune system, and secretion of soluble factors that interact with host cells.
Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico. metil@hotmail.com
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D000818:Animals; D006373:Helminthiasis / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology; D006376:Helminths / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology*