Partially transformed tumor cells that require two growth factors can cooperate. Those that make only factor A share with those that make only factor B, and vice versa.

AXELROD/NAS

Cooperation among tumor cells may improve their odds of survival and eventual malignancy, as proposed by Robert Axelrod, Kenneth Pienta (University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI), and David Axelrod (Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ). By applying the theoretical analysis of cooperation known as game theory, the authors offer a new way to view cancer progression.

Originally an economic analysis, game theory is now widely used. “In terms of societies, businesses, even political parties,” says David Axelrod, “competition, where one wins and one loses, is not necessarily the best strategy. But cooperate, and both can win.” He and his colleagues argue that the same can be said for tumor cells.

Tumors are a mixed bag of cells that...

The Rockefeller University Press
2006
The Rockefeller University Press
2006
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