What is the role of viruses in cancer?

1 Answer
Jun 18, 2016

Viruses may encourage the development of cancer by interfering with a cell's DNA sequences.

Explanation:

Some viruses (retroviruses) insert their genes into the host's DNA in order to force the host to copy their genes for them. If this insertion happens in certain places, it can interfere with the host cell's own replication mechanisms, with the possibility of leading to uncontrolled cell division.

This uncontrolled cell division can lead to tumour growth.

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