Carcinogenesis · Pathology

Which of the following describes the 'Initiation' stage of chemical carcinogenesis?

  1. The reversible induction of cell proliferation
  2. Rapid and irreversible induction of a DNA mutation
  3. The development of autonomous growth and invasiveness
  4. The process of tumor neovascularization
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Correct answer: Rapid and irreversible induction of a DNA mutation

Initiation is the first step of carcinogenesis, involving exposure of cells to a sufficient dose of a carcinogenic agent. It results in permanent DNA damage that is rapid and irreversible, though not yet sufficient for tumor formation on its own.

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