What can lead to the formation of malignant tumors?

The formation of malignant tumors is primarily linked to the accumulation of genetic mutations. These mutations can occur in critical genes that control cell growth and division, such as oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. When these genes are mutated, the normal regulatory mechanisms of the cell cycle can become disrupted, leading to uncontrolled cell division and the potential development of a tumor. Malignant tumors are characterized by their ability to invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body, which is often a direct result of the genetic changes that cause cells to behave abnormally.

In contrast, controlled cell division, repair of damaged cells, and the promotion of apoptosis all contribute to maintaining cellular health and preventing tumor formation. Controlled cell division ensures that cells replicate only when necessary, while the ability to repair damage helps fix mutations before they can lead to cancer. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, serves as a mechanism to eliminate potentially harmful cells, such as those that may have undergone genetic mutations. Therefore, the accumulation of genetic mutations stands out as a key factor in the development of malignant tumors.