Introductory Cancer Biology Quiz

Growth Disorders

• Common growth disorders include dwarfism, gigantism, and acromegaly.
• An example of a condition not classified as a growth disorder would be cancer.

Tumour Biology Principles

• Tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous); malignant tumours invade surrounding tissues.
• The process of metastasis involves the spread of cancer cells to distant sites in the body.
• Tumourigenesis occurs through multiple stages including initiation, promotion, and progression.
• Genetic mutations drive the development of tumours, affecting oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes.
• The microenvironment of a tumour, including immune cells and blood vessels, plays a crucial role in tumor growth and survival.

Recommended Texts for Cancer Biology

• Key textbooks often recommended include "The Biology of Cancer" by Weinberg and "Cancer Biology" by R. A. Weinberg.
• Texts not commonly listed as core references may include unrelated medical textbooks or those focused on other diseases.

Causes of Cell Injury

• Hypoxia and ischemia lead to reduced oxygen supply and can damage cells.
• Chemical exposure, including toxins and drugs, can impair cellular function.
• Infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria can invade and destroy cells.
• Physical agents like extreme temperature or radiation can cause direct cell damage.

Cellular Adaptation Response

• Normal responses to stress include hypertrophy (increased cell size) and hyperplasia (increased cell number).
• Atrophy refers to a decrease in tissue size, often due to disuse or decreased demand.
• Metaplasia involves a change in cell type in response to stress, aiming to better suit the environment.