Uncontrolled Cell Division
Exam code: 5090
Cancer
Cancer
Cells in the body divide by mitosis to produce more cells - this is essential for growth and to repair damaged cells
For example, the cells of the intestines are constantly dividing to replace those that are shed as food moves through the digestive system
Mitosis is just one part of the cell cycle which is regulated by many different genes to ensure that cells divide only when they need to and stop when required
Cancer is caused as a result of mutations in the DNA of cells that lead to uncontrolled cell growth and division - this can result in the formation of a tumour (a mass of cells)
Usually, tumours form as a result of loss of control of the cell cycle