Carcinogenesis and teratogenesis may have common mechanisms.
本文探讨癌变与致畸过程中可能共有的机制，如基因突变、基因表达干扰、膜特性改变及细胞内稳态失调，对理解癌症发生和胚胎发育异常有参考价值。
The specific mechanisms of carcinogenesis and teratogenesis are poorly understood. There are, however, some known or potential common mechanisms, such as gene or chromosome mutations, interference with gene expression, altered membrane properties, or altered intracellular homeostasis. Carcinogenesis is generally regarded as a multistage process, and a carcinogen can act at one or several stages. Agents acting in the early stages of the neoplastic process are DNA-reactive, mutagenic compounds which enable cells to be transformed to malignancy. These agents can also, if acting during critical periods of ontogenesis, induce abnormal development of the embryo. Agents which block gap junctional intercellular communication may act both as tumor-promoting agents and ans teratogens in the developing embryo. Hormones are essential in the control of development and differentiation. Modulation of the intracellular hormone receptors may lead to changes in homeostasis with abnormal cellular proliferation and development as a consequence.