Pathogens and cancer: Clonal processes and evolution

Abstract

There is evidence of interrelations between the immune system and the development of cancer. The intersection between the two: cancer immune response may depend upon the interaction with pathogens. Hosts and pathogens interact so that clones may develop. Cancer and clonal development, like other biological events evolved, seem to share an affinity: cancer and clonality are considered evolutionary processes. From a phylogenetic perspective, information supports an area of affinity. A mechanism has been identified, the existence of suppression via p53, a well-known suppressor. Returning to the relation between the development of clonal responses and an inducer may depend upon the characteristics of the pathogen. Nonpathogenic antigens induce short-lived specific responses generated and mediated by clones that are specific and therefore express specific destruction. Most pathogens (viruses, fungi, bacteria) are harmful, but some do not induce infections. The living world includes a staggering array of life, and each life form may be vulnerable to attack by pathogens that cause disease and, ultimately, death.