Genetic and epigenetic alteration in gastric carcinogenesis.

Summary: Stomach cancer isn't just a result of diet or environment; your DNA plays a critical role, too. Scientists have discovered that the disease is driven by a combination of environmental triggers and specific genetic changes. Some of these changes act like stuck gas pedals (oncogenes) that force cells to grow, while others break the brakes (tumor suppressor genes) that normally stop cancer. The good news is that understanding these unique genetic fingerprints is leading to better care, including targeted therapies like HER-2 treatments that attack specific cancer cells while sparing healthy ones.