What is metastasis, and why is metastatic cancer the most difficult cancer to treat?

What will be an ideal response?


Metastasis is the spreading of cancerous cells to several locations of the body via the bloodstream. The cancerous cells are thus no longer at a point source, which might be treatable locally with surgery or radiation. Metastatic cancers must be treated systemically, as with chemotherapy or radiation.

Biology & Microbiology

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It has been known for some time that fetal cells can be found in a pregnant woman’s bloodstream,

sometimes years after a pregnancy. A new technique has been developed that allows scientists to isolate these fetal cells from a pregnant woman’s blood. Why would this be a useful new tool for parents interested in genetic testing of their fetus?

What will be an ideal response?

Biology & Microbiology

There is a strong positive correlation between rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations and ________

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

Biology & Microbiology

An enzyme binds its substrate at the active site

__________________ Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Biology & Microbiology

Imagine that a patient is admitted to the hospital after falling from the second-story window of her apartment. Tests reveal no injuries other than some swelling in the brain. Why, then, would her breathing become irregular?

A) The blood returning to the lungs from the brain is too high in oxygen. B) Her tissues require more oxygen for healing. C) The damage to the brain is affecting the respiratory center in the medulla. D) Her swollen brain is causing a decrease in blood pressure. E) The respiratory center in the lungs is malfunctioning due to a lack of carbon dioxide.

Biology & Microbiology