Uncontrolled Cell Division (Cambridge O Level Biology)

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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

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Lára

Author: Lára

Expertise: Biology Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.