The Somatic Mutation Theory (SMT) of Cancer is that a change in the DNA of a somatic cell changes its characteristics, as such, it undergoes clonal mutation and expansion. These cells then acquire further mutations so that eventually a sub-clone emerges that is able to grow or metastasize sufficiently to cause death of the host. So SMT suggests that cancer is due to genetic mutations in somatic cells specifically in oncogenes that spark gain-of-function that promote cell growth and tumor suppressor genes that regulate cell division. Oncogenes are mutated forms of normal genes, which promote cell growth. These mutations accumulate over time, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation.
Historically, the drug treatment for mutated cancer cells has been chemotherapy, or chemo, and radiation. Chemo works by killing cancer cells or halting the growth of cancer. Chemo is also used to shrink cancer tumors. Drugs like tyrosine kinase inhibitors target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells.
Radiation is used to focus on specific targets such as tumors. Surgery is an option as well. These are considered Standard of Care in Western medicine.
The Metabolic Theory of Cancer (MTC) is that Cancer is a metabolic disease caused by mitochondrial dysfunction within the cell rather than genetic mutations. The mitochondrial dysfunction may be caused by a variety of sources such as chemicals, carcinogens, atmosphere, genes, food and drink and more. The mitochondria in the normal cell become damaged which causes that cell to mutate into a cancer cell. Normal cells live in an oxygenated environment producing energy to the body and go through apoptosis, that is, normal death cycle making way for new cells. Cancer cells live in an anerobic fermentation and feed on blood glucose and glutamine.
The treatment approach is simple, that is to deal directly with the cancer cell. There are metabolic interventions including oxygen therapy, therapeutic eating programs, repurposed pharmaceuticals to kill and starve cancer cells, over-the-counter supplements, natural therapies and immune system boosters. These approaches are not considered Standard of Care.
