Cancer is a disease in which the body's cells divide disorderly and are likely
to spread to other organs. It has always been one of the world's top causes of death. A
growing population, low mortality rate, and lifestyle changes lead to an increase in the
number of cancer cases. It can be caused by genetic or environmental factors or a
combination of both. The risk of cancer increases with age as the body loses its ability
to eliminate the damaged cells. Cancer-causing genes can be inherited or acquired due
to exposure to carcinogens. Cancers are inherited when a mutation occurs in the germ
cells. The carcinogens can alter the DNA of a normal gene (a proto-oncogene)
converting it into a cancerous oncogene. Genes that slow cell division, fix DNA errors,
or undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis) are tumor suppressor genes. Tumor
suppressor genes that don't function properly can cause cells to develop out of control,
leading to cancer. Cancer expresses itself differently in each individual, making it
challenging to identify and treat. Studying the types of genetic mutations, as well as the
genes, proteins, and signaling pathways involved in cancer formation will help better
understand the underlying cause of cancer. Identifying which genes are expressed in
various cancer types will enable scientists to develop novel techniques for curing the
disease. This chapter will explain how different cancer types are linked to specific
genes and their locations on chromosome 17.
Keywords: Apoptosis, Cancer, Cell Division, Cancer Formation, DNA Damage, Gene, Genetics, Mutations, Oncogene, Signaling Pathway, Tumor Suppressor Gene.