What Mechanisms Contribute to Genetic Shuffling in Cancer?
Several mechanisms contribute to genetic shuffling in cancer, including:
Chromosomal Instability (CIN): This involves changes in the number or structure of chromosomes, leading to genetic diversity. Microsatellite Instability (MSI): This involves alterations in short, repetitive DNA sequences, often due to defects in the DNA mismatch repair system. Epigenetic Modifications: Changes in DNA methylation and histone modification can alter gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. Somatic Mutations: Random mutations in non-germline cells can accumulate over time, contributing to cancer heterogeneity.
