Transplacental carcinogenesis
Transplacental Carcinogenesis
Transplacental carcinogenesis (pronunciation: trans-pla-sen-tal kar-sin-o-gen-e-sis) is a process in which carcinogens are transferred from a pregnant mother to the fetus through the placenta, potentially leading to the development of cancer in the offspring.
Etymology
The term "transplacental" is derived from the Latin words "trans" meaning "across" and "placenta" meaning "cake", referring to the organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall. "Carcinogenesis" is derived from the Greek words "karkinos" meaning "crab" or "cancer", and "genesis" meaning "origin" or "source".
Process
Transplacental carcinogenesis involves the transfer of carcinogens, or cancer-causing substances, from the mother to the fetus via the placenta. This can occur when a pregnant woman is exposed to carcinogens, such as those found in tobacco smoke, certain medications, or environmental pollutants. These substances can cross the placental barrier and cause damage to the fetal DNA, potentially leading to the development of cancer later in life.
Related Terms
- Carcinogen: A substance capable of causing cancer in living tissue.
- Placenta: An organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, providing oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and removing waste products.
- DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, a self-replicating material present in nearly all living organisms as the main constituent of chromosomes. It is the carrier of genetic information.
- Cancer: A disease caused by an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in a part of the body.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Transplacental carcinogenesis
- Wikipedia's article - Transplacental carcinogenesis
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