Malignoitumisesta

Malignoitumisesta, known in English as malignant transformation, refers to the biological process by which a normal cell or a benign tumor develops into a cancerous cell or malignant tumor. This transformation is characterized by uncontrolled cell division, invasion of surrounding tissues, and the potential for metastasis, which is the spread of cancer to distant parts of the body.

The process of malignant transformation is complex and involves a series of genetic and epigenetic alterations within a cell. These changes can be caused by various factors, including exposure to carcinogens (such as tobacco smoke, radiation, or certain viruses), random mutations during DNA replication, or inherited genetic predispositions. These mutations can affect genes that control cell growth, differentiation, and programmed cell death (apoptosis).

Oncogenes, which promote cell growth, can become overactive, while tumor suppressor genes, which normally inhibit cell division and repair DNA damage, can become inactivated. This imbalance allows cells to divide uncontrollably and accumulate further mutations, leading to the development of a malignant tumor.

The transition from a benign to a malignant state is often a gradual process, with intermediate stages such as dysplasia, where cells show abnormal features but have not yet become fully cancerous. The ability of malignant cells to invade surrounding tissues and metastasize is a key characteristic that distinguishes them from benign tumors and makes them life-threatening. Understanding malignant transformation is crucial for developing effective cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.