Cancer and Apoptosis

Questions and Answers

Non-invasive and no regrowth

To facilitate proper development and destroy harmful cells

The promotion of cancer cell development

It inhibits the growth of cancer cells Signup and view all the answers

They stimulate cell proliferation Signup and view all the answers

The risk of cancer development increases with age Signup and view all the answers

To eliminate all neoplastic cells Signup and view all the answers

It prevents spindle formation in the dividing cells Signup and view all the answers

Fecal excretion Signup and view all the answers

It is required for the synthesis of purine nucleotides and thymidylate Signup and view all the answers

Vinblastine is less neurotoxic than vincristine Signup and view all the answers

98-99% Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cancer develops from abnormal cells due to mutations in normal cell DNA, characterized by uncontrolled proliferation and spread.
Normal cells have a limited lifespan and die, whereas cancer cells lack the components that instruct them to stop dividing and die.

Apoptosis is programmed cell death that facilitates proper development and destroys cells that could harm the organism.
Both extrinsic and intrinsic signals initiate apoptosis, which can be affected by mutations, leading to cancer development.

Mutations in genes that regulate normal physiological functions, caused by errors during cell division, environmental factors, or heredity.
Carcinogens, such as estrogen, can stimulate cell proliferation.
Cancer-causing viruses, like Epstein-Barr virus, human papilloma virus, and hepatitis B virus, can increase cancer risk.

Aims to eliminate all neoplastic cells, with early treatment being critical.
Involves drugs with a narrow therapeutic index, often requiring combinations of drugs with different mechanisms of action.
Targets actively growing cells, which are most sensitive to chemotherapy.

Vinca alkaloids: derived from the periwinkle plant, binding to β-tubulin, and preventing microtubule formation.
Folate antagonists: methotrexate, inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase and preventing DNA synthesis.
Alkylating agents: nitrogen mustards and nitrosoureas.

Vincristine: used to treat acute lymphocytic leukemia, Hodgkin lymphoma, and non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
Vinblastine: used to treat breast cancer, testicular cancer, and neuroblastoma.
Side effects: alopecia, cellulitis, nausea, bone marrow depression, and neurotoxicity.