Malignant transformation is a cellular change from normal or benign to cancerous. Transformed cells have several traits that set them aside from other cell types, including extended life or immortality, where they don’t die like normal cells do, and rapid division and proliferation. As the cells grow and divide, they develop into a cancerous tumor that can invade neighboring tissues if it is not identified and treated. Understanding the science behind malignant transformation is key to the prevention and effective treatment of cancer.
Sometimes a normal cell undergoes a malignant transformation, while in other cases, a previously benign tumor turns malignant. Benign tumors can be very common and in some instances are not noticed until after a patient dies and the body is autopsied. These growths don’t have the capacity for metastasis associated with cancerous growths, and may be left in place when they are identified if they are not causing any problems. When they turn cancerous, they become invasive and can pose a threat to the patient.
This process is a result of changes in the genetic code of the cell. Normally, certain genes control cell division, growth, maturation, and death. In the course of malignant transformation, some genes are turned off while others are turned on, changing the nature of the cell’s Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA). The cell and all its progeny become cancerous, and because the cells don’t die off as they would normally, the tumor can continue to grow over time.
In lab environments, researchers study the various factors that seem to play a role in malignant transformation. These can include environmental exposure to chemicals and radiation along with random mutations, some of which are the result of a genetic predisposition. Some families have a history of breast cancer, for example, linked with specific gene mutations. They don’t cause cancer, but they can make it more likely that a patient will develop cancer.
Sometimes the immune system identifies the signs of malignant transformation and may attack cancerous cells. It triggers cell death and relies on the metabolism to break apart the involved cell or cells, recycle useful components, and discard the waste materials. In other cases, the immune system fails to identify cancer or is unable to attack the cells. As the tumor grows, it can creates symptoms like pain, swelling, and organ dysfunction, leading the patient to seek medical attention. Other tumors may be identified during routine medical examinations, before they have started to cause symptoms.