Over the past decades, cancer has remained one of the world’s most significant medical challenges.
From the early reliance on traditional treatments to today’s precision medicine, the evolution of cancer therapy has been largely driven by advances in our understanding of genetics.
This article explains the fundamental relationship between genes and cancer formation.
Bryant Chen, Medical Affairs Manager, BE Accelerator
What Is a Gene?
The term “gene” originates from the ancient Greek word γόνος (gónos), meaning “birth” or “origin.”
It was first proposed in 1909 by Danish scientist Wilhelm Johannsen.
In modern biology, a gene is defined as the basic unit of heredity, carrying the “instructions” that define each organism—determining characteristics such as height, facial features, and skin color.
Many researchers also suggest that genes can influence psychological and behavioral traits.
The human body contains approximately 25,000 genes, each composed of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid).
Through unique coding sequences, genes guide biological development and regulate cellular function.
Every cell in the human body contains the same genetic blueprint, but during differentiation and growth, specific genes are selectively expressed depending on the cell’s function and tissue type.
What Is Cancer?
Human growth and tissue renewal are driven by cellular division and regeneration.
New cells replace aged or damaged ones, maintaining a healthy physiological balance.
However, when influenced by internal or external factors, some cells escape their normal death cycle and continue to proliferate abnormally—forming clusters known as tumors.
Tumors can develop in almost any part of the body.
When tumor cells gain the ability to metastasize—spreading through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other organs—they are classified as malignant tumors, commonly known as cancer.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately 20 million new cancer cases and 10 million cancer-related deaths globally every year, with both figures continuing to rise【1】.
In Taiwan, cancer has been the leading cause of death for 40 consecutive years.
Based on the 2020 (ROC Year 109) Cancer Registry Report by Taiwan’s Health Promotion Administration, the crude incidence rate was 517.71 per 100,000 people, while the crude mortality rate was 212.90 per 100,000, accounting for 28.98% of all deaths.
The most common cancers include breast cancer (women), colorectal cancer, and lung cancer【2】.
Genetic Alterations Drive Cancer Formation
The transformation from a normal cell to a cancer cell usually involves qualitative changes in genetic material, known as gene mutations.
These mutations can arise from inherited (germline) factors or external (environmental) influences such as:
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Physical carcinogens: radiation, ultraviolet rays
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Chemical carcinogens: asbestos, tobacco smoke
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Biological carcinogens: viruses, bacteria, or parasites
In oncogenesis, genes are generally categorized into two functional groups:
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Oncogenes, which drive abnormal cell growth and proliferation.
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Tumor suppressor genes, which regulate cell death and inhibit uncontrolled division.
When mutations activate oncogenes or inactivate tumor suppressor genes, the risk of malignant transformation increases.
Moreover, cancer rarely results from a single mutation; rather, it arises through the accumulation of multiple genetic alterations and complex gene–gene interactions over time.
From Genetic Insight to Precision Medicine
By decoding genetic data and analyzing the hidden molecular patterns within, we can uncover key insights that guide cancer diagnosis and treatment.
In the era of precision medicine, cancer therapy has evolved beyond traditional surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and palliative care.
It now integrates genomics-driven approaches, such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy, which are discussed in the next article.
For further information, please contact:
📩 Bryant.chen@be.tworg.app
References:
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World Health Organization. Cancer Fact Sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
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Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan. Cancer Registry Annual Report, 2020 (ROC Year 109).
