Cell competition and its possible relation to cancer

Abstract

Cell competition can occur when cells of different genotypes share the same developing compartment, with one genotype displacing the other as a result of a proliferative advantage. Studies of cell competition in Drosophila have identified an active process of cell assassination and corpse engulfment, and also roles for Myc and the Warts/Hippo tumor suppressor pathway. Here, we discuss the possible relevance of cell competition to cancer. ©2008 American Association for Cancer Research.