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The Significance of Mutation in Relation to the Origin of Tumors: A Review^*

( Department of Surgery, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, La.)

1. Chromogene mutation, position effect, and changes in cytoplasmic particles should be carefully distinguished in any discussion of mutation, and the biological connotation of the terminology preserved.

2. Evidence for the existence of genes for cancer susceptibility which undoubtedly arose as mutants in germ cells is extensive and convincing. Recombination of these genes without additional germinal mutation may alter susceptibility to tumors.

3. There is at present evidence neither for the existence of plasmagenes in mammalian cells nor for the origin of such material from antecedent genic substance.

4. A general correlation between mutagenicity and carcinogenicity cannot be proposed from present evidence.

5. Somatic chromogene mutation has not been excluded as a mode of origin of cancer, but the possibility that this is more than an unusual occurrence or that it adequately explains more than specific cases of carcinogenesis remains in doubt.

^* Aided by a grant from the National Cancer Institute, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.

Received 1/11/55.

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