Co-carcinogen
A co-carcinogen is a substance that, while not necessarily carcinogenic on its own, can promote the effects of a carcinogen in the development of cancer. Co-carcinogens can enhance the carcinogenicity of other substances by various mechanisms, including increasing the absorption of the carcinogen, altering its metabolism, or affecting the body's immune system.
Mechanisms of Action[edit | edit source]
Co-carcinogens can act through several mechanisms:
- **Metabolic Activation**: Some co-carcinogens can increase the metabolic activation of procarcinogens into their active carcinogenic forms. For example, certain enzymes in the liver can convert procarcinogens into active carcinogens.
- **Inhibition of DNA Repair**: Co-carcinogens can inhibit the DNA repair mechanisms, making it more likely for mutations to accumulate and lead to cancer.
- **Immune Suppression**: By suppressing the immune system, co-carcinogens can reduce the body's ability to detect and destroy cancerous cells.
- **Inflammation**: Chronic inflammation caused by co-carcinogens can create an environment conducive to cancer development.
Examples of Co-carcinogens[edit | edit source]
- **Alcohol**: Alcohol is a well-known co-carcinogen that can enhance the carcinogenic effects of tobacco smoke, particularly in cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, and esophagus.
- **Asbestos**: Asbestos fibers can act as co-carcinogens by promoting the effects of other carcinogens, such as those found in cigarette smoke, leading to lung cancer and mesothelioma.
- **Certain Chemicals**: Chemicals like arsenic and formaldehyde can act as co-carcinogens by enhancing the effects of other carcinogens.
Related Concepts[edit | edit source]
- Carcinogenesis: The process by which normal cells are transformed into cancer cells.
- Mutagen: An agent that causes genetic mutation.
- Oncogene: A gene that has the potential to cause cancer.
- Tumor Suppressor Gene: A gene that protects a cell from one step on the path to cancer.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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