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Cancer: Fundamentals, Origin and Mechanisms
Krebs: Grundlagen, Ursachen und Mechanismen
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:23:54
Abstract
General aspects and etiology of cancer diseases. Molecular events occurring during the development of a cancer cell. Concept of proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes and their function within the cell. Interactions between chemicals and DNA. Test systems to recognize mutagenic chemicals. Basics of epidemiology relevant to cancer. Old and new therapeutic strategies.
Objective
Students are able to describe selected chemicals, biological and molecular processes that occur in cells spontaneously or after physical or chemical exposure and resulting in a tumor. They are able to list a couple of cancer-inducing agents and explain the respective mechanism of action. They know about problems that toxicologists are confronted with and they can explain the basics of mutagenicity- test systems.
Content
The lecture deals with problems of tumor epidemiology (causes, mortality, incidence). Cancer is delineated as a multi-step process. Classes of chemical compounds that induce cancer are discussed as well as the reactive metabolites that may be built from. Covalent binding to DNA is discussed and different types of mutations resulting therof. A selection of proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes is presented. Their function will be discussed as well as the changes which are found in these genes in tumor cells, starting from single nucleotide exchanges up to large deletions. The reason for genetic predisposition to cancer will be discussed as well as cancer relevant aspects of cell cycle regulation. Phenomenons like angiogenesis and metastasis are presented as well as the mechanisms that protect the genome from damage. Further subjects address new strategies of cancer treatment. One phase of problem based learning will allow to treat one particular phenomenon in more deepness.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Handouts with reproductions of all presented transparencies will be distributed.
Literature
- Steward, Bernard W. and Kleihues, Paul: World Cancer Report. 2003. 251 S.; ISBN 92 832 0411 5, IARC Press, Lyon, France; SFr. 28.- - Weinberg, Robert: The biology of Cancer. 2007.796 S.; ISBN 0 8153 4076 1, Taylor & Francis, New York, USA additional informations are given during the lecture
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC , DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Krebs: Grundlagen, Ursachen und Mechanismen |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Extra-Curricular Courses (In certain cases, credit points may be awardable (prior agreement of the Dept. of Biology required).)
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