Genetic mutations during the appearance and development of cancer. Literature Review
Abstract
Introduction: Genetic mutations are fundamental in the development of cancer, since they alter DNA and affect cell growth. They can arise from errors in replication or exposure to carcinogens, activating oncogenes or inactivating suppressor genes.
Objective: Describe the available evidence on genetic mutations during the onset and development of cancer.
Methods: A bibliographic review was carried out in the period from January to September 2023. Original articles, case reports and open access systematic reviews were consulted in peer-reviewed academic publications from the databases: SciELO, Regmed, Dialnet, MayoClinic and MedlinePlus. AND and OR were used as Boolean operators.
Development: Genetic mutations are alterations in the DNA sequence, classified into point mutations, insertions and deletions. Point mutations change a single base and can activate oncogenes, promoting uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. Insertions and deletions alter the reading frame, producing non-functional proteins. These changes can also inactivate DNA repair genes, essential for maintaining genetic integrity. When repair systems fail, cells accumulate additional mutations. This increases the risk of malignant transformation and contributes to cancer progression. Together, these mutations are essential in the development of cancer.
Conclusion: The contribution of molecular and cellular biology to the study of the carcinogenesis process has been of crucial importance for early detection of the appearance of tumors.
Keywords: Cancer; Gene; Mutation; Onco genes
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