Abstract
Cancers are the results of somatic clonal evolution and hence should follow Darwinian principles. Even though this postulate is generally accepted within the cancer research community, considerations of evolutionary framework are largely missing from the way we study, prevent and treat cancers. To a large extent, this situation can be attributed to the predominance of the assumption that clonal evolution is the result of acquisition of “driver” mutations that unlock malignant phenotypes. This assumption renders consideration of context-specific selection forces unnecessary and focuses all of the attention on proximal causation mechanisms. Second, somatic evolution has several unique features that complicate application of insights gained from studies of evolution in natural populations. These unique features need to be considered and incorporated into a larger conceptual framework of somatic evolution to fully unlock explanatory and predicted power of Darwinian framework.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
