How can altered cellular regulation lead to cancer?

Altered cellular regulation can lead to cancer primarily by disrupting normal cell division, which allows for uncontrolled growth of cells. In a healthy system, cellular regulation mechanisms ensure that cell division occurs in a controlled manner, with checks and balances that prevent excessive growth. When these regulatory systems are altered—whether through genetic mutations, environmental factors, or other influences—it can result in cells bypassing normal growth controls.

This disruption often means that the cell cycle is not properly regulated, leading to excessive proliferation. These cells may continue to divide without the normal signals that would typically prompt them to stop, resulting in a mass of cells that can form tumors. Additionally, these altered cells may also evade apoptosis (programmed cell death), allowing them to survive longer than they should. Consequently, unchecked division and survival of these abnormal cells are central mechanisms through which altered cellular regulation contributes to the development and progression of cancer.