Tumorigenic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tumorigenic
[tjuหmษraษชหdสษnษชk ]
Definition
medical science
Tumorigenic refers to the ability of a substance or organism to induce the formation of tumors. It describes a process whereby cancerous cells proliferate, leading to the growth of tumors in biological tissues.
Synonyms
cancer-causing, oncogenic, tumor-inducing.
Examples of usage
- Certain chemicals are known to be tumorigenic and pose a risk to human health.
- Researchers are studying tumorigenic pathways in cancer biology.
- The tumorigenic potential of this virus has been under investigation.
- Exposure to tumorigenic agents can increase cancer risk.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Certain chemicals, known as carcinogens, have been shown to be tumorigenic, causing cells to divide uncontrollably.
- Radiation exposure is another factor considered tumorigenic, linking high doses to increased cancer risk.
- Some viruses, such as HPV, can be tumorigenic by inserting their DNA into human cells, causing changes that lead to cancer.
Medicine
- Research into tumorigenic factors is critical for developing effective cancer therapies and preventative measures.
- Tumorigenic studies often involve mutation analysis to understand how normal cells become malignant.
Cultural Perspectives
- The portrayal of tumors in film and literature often reflects societal fears about health and mortality, impacting public perception of cancer.
- Advancements in understanding tumorigenic processes have contributed to the rise of personalized medicine, catering treatment to individual genetics.
Psychology
- Awareness of tumorigenic factors can lead to increased anxiety in individuals regarding health and lifestyle choices.
- People may adopt preventive measures against cancer based on knowledge of tumorigenic causes, such as avoiding certain foods or substances.
Origin of 'tumorigenic'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'tumor', from the Latin 'tumere', meaning 'to swell', and 'genic', from Greek 'genesis', meaning 'origin' or 'creation'.
- It first appeared in medical texts in the early 20th century, highlighting an increasing understanding of cancer.
The term tumorigenic derives from the combination of the prefix 'tumor-' and the suffix '-genic.' 'Tumor' comes from the Latin word 'tumor,' meaning 'swelling,' referring to abnormal growths in the body. The suffix '-genic' is derived from the Greek word 'genes,' meaning 'born of' or 'producing.' The usage of 'tumorigenic' began in the early 20th century as scientists started to understand the cellular mechanisms of cancer development and the role of specific agents that could cause tumor formation. Since then, the term has been widely used in medical and scientific literature to discuss factors that are implicated in carcinogenesis, or the initiation of cancer. Tumorigenic studies are critical in identifying potential risks in environmental health, pharmaceuticals, and biological research, all while helping to discern how cancer develops, progresses, and can be prevented.