What causes a primary tumor to form in the body? Metastatic dissemination explains how genetic damage in the cell can develop cancer and begin the spread. Press play to learn:

• The triggers for the spread of cancer cells
• How a stroma supports the primary tumor
• If excess mutations can revert tumors to stem cell-like tissue

Robert Weinberg, a member of the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research and professor of biology at MIT, discusses his research into the formation and spread of cancer.

The tissue in tumors resembles very closely the tissue found in wounds. The inflammatory state which assists in healing all wounds may be responsible for the aggression and proliferation of cancer cells and tumor growth.

As the tumor grows and continues to mutate, it begins to recruit several different types of cells to assist in growth and survival. Multiple mutations in a tumor may continue to increase the aggression and inflammatory nature of the tumor as it grows.

For more information, search for Robert Weinberg's laboratory in association with the Whitehead Institute on your preferred engine.

Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/30PvU9C