Radical causes of cancer

Nat Rev Cancer. 2003 Apr;3(4):276-85. doi: 10.1038/nrc1046.

Abstract

Free radicals are ubiquitous in our body and are generated by normal physiological processes, including aerobic metabolism and inflammatory responses, to eliminate invading pathogenic microorganisms. Because free radicals can also inflict cellular damage, several defences have evolved both to protect our cells from radicals--such as antioxidant scavengers and enzymes--and to repair DNA damage. Understanding the association between chronic inflammation and cancer provides insights into the molecular mechanisms involved. In particular, we highlight the interaction between nitric oxide and p53 as a crucial pathway in inflammatory-mediated carcinogenesis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chemoprevention
  • DNA Damage
  • Free Radicals / metabolism*
  • Genes, p53
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / genetics
  • Inflammation / metabolism
  • Models, Animal
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • Nitric Oxide Synthase / biosynthesis
  • Nitric Oxide Synthase / genetics

Substances

  • Free Radicals
  • Nitric Oxide Synthase