Cancerización

Cancerización, also known as carcinogenesis, is the process by which normal cells are transformed into cancerous cells. This transformation is a multi-step process that involves changes in the cell's genetic material, or DNA. These genetic alterations can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to carcinogens, which are substances that can cause cancer. Common carcinogens include tobacco smoke, certain chemicals, and radiation.

The process of cancerización typically begins with damage to a cell's DNA. If this damage is not repaired properly, it can lead to mutations. These mutations can accumulate over time, altering the cell's growth and division patterns. Eventually, a cell may acquire enough mutations to become cancerous. This means it can grow uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues, and potentially spread to other parts of the body.

There are many different types of cancer, and the specific genetic changes involved in cancerización can vary greatly. However, the underlying principle is the same: a series of accumulating genetic mutations leads to the development of a malignant tumor. Understanding cancerización is crucial for developing strategies to prevent and treat cancer, as it helps researchers identify the key molecular events that drive cancer development and target them for therapeutic intervention.