NTU Undergraduates' research April 2014 - Biosciences | Page 27

Abstract
There over 200 types of cancer, it is the second biggest killer of mankind, accounting for 1 in 7
deaths in the world. Cancer is the uncontrolled proliferation of cells which comes about by the
accumulation of gene mutations in tumour suppressor genes and genes that induce apoptosis of a
period of time. These mutations can be gained from the environment through exposure to
carcinogens in the environment or through inheritance mutations. There are three main stages of
cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. Statistics show 90% of cancer related deaths are
due to cancer metastasis and the formation of secondary tumours. Cross talk between the
microenvironment and cancer cells influences the behaviour of tumours through the release of
mediators. Mast cells are found to accumulate at the site of tumours. Mast cells are bone marrow
derived cells associated with inflammation and allergy. Mast cells have been found to have both
tumour promotion and tumour suppressive effects through release of various mediators. Due to
the effects of mast cells it has been thought they be used as a target in cancer therapy.