Molecular Aspects of Gastric Cancer Development: A Mini Review

Abstract

Gastric cancer is still a common problem and is responsible for a large portion of worldwide cancer mortality, linked to low survival rates. Gastric cancer is a complex, multifaceted process caused by a complicated interaction of environmental and genetic variables. Despite the fact that numerous studies have been conducted on genetic alterations that lead to its genesis, the exact causes remain unknown. Gastric cancer is thought to be caused by various genetic or epigenetic changes, including microsatellite instability (MSI), tumor suppressor gene deactivation, and oncogene overexpression. Apart from that, molecular determinants like cell-cycle regulators and cell adhesion molecules are also responsible for the progression of gastric malignancies. Identifying the etiology of gastric cancer through molecular genetic alterations may assist in the creation of new biomarkers for vulnerability assessment, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches.  This review summarizes our current understanding of the molecular basis of gastric cancer, including numerous molecular changes in pathophysiology and tumorigenesis determinants.