How does lung cancer effect the cell cycle?

Lung cancer can affect the cell cycle in several ways:

1. DNA damage: Cigarette smoke, which is a major risk factor for lung cancer, contains many carcinogens that can damage DNA. This damage can lead to mutations in genes that are involved in the cell cycle, such as tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes.

2. Cell cycle dysregulation: Mutations in cell cycle genes can disrupt the normal progression of the cell cycle, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and division. For example, mutations in the tumor suppressor gene p53 can prevent cells from undergoing apoptosis (programmed cell death) when they are damaged, allowing them to continue to proliferate.

3. Increased angiogenesis: Lung cancer cells often produce factors that stimulate the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). This increased blood supply provides the tumor with oxygen and nutrients, allowing it to grow and spread.

4. Metastasis: Lung cancer cells can also undergo metastasis, which is the spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. This process involves the detachment of cells from the primary tumor, their migration through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and their colonization of other organs.

Overall, lung cancer affects the cell cycle by causing DNA damage, disrupting cell cycle regulation, promoting angiogenesis, and facilitating metastasis. These changes contribute to the uncontrolled growth and spread of lung cancer cells.