Can Plants Get Cancer? Exploring the Possibility of Plant Cancer

In summary, while there is no definitive answer, it is possible for plants to exhibit symptoms similar to cancer when exposed to certain substances such as Agrobacterium tumefaciens and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid. However, the use of the term "cancer" in this context may be debated.
  • #1
Bladibla
358
1
Can plants get cancer? I don't see any reason for plants not to get cancer, but i have never heard of a speciies of plant really 'dying' from a cancer of any kind.

Any answers ppl?
 
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  • #2
Agrobacterium tumafacians and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid cause the plant to grow abnormally to death

http://helios.bto.ed.ac.uk/bto/microbes/crown.htm
 
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  • #3
Agrobacterium tumafacians and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid cause the plant to grow abnormally to death
Agrobacterium tumefaciens is an good example of a bacterium that induces http://biology.kenyon.edu/Microbial_Biorealm/bacteria/proteobacteria/agrobacterium/Agrobacterium.htm

The second example is a stretch of the term cancer. 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid is a synthetic herbicide. It mimics the activity of the plant hormone auxin (Indole Acetic Acid) causing the excessive cellular growth. If you inject yourself with an excess of substance that mimics our own hormones (e.g. somatotropin-like substance), would the excessive growth be called cancer?
 
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FAQ: Can Plants Get Cancer? Exploring the Possibility of Plant Cancer

1. Can plants actually get cancer?

Yes, plants can get cancer. While it is less common than in animals, plants can develop abnormal growths and tumors due to genetic mutations, environmental factors, and pathogens.

2. What causes cancer in plants?

There are various factors that can cause cancer in plants, including exposure to UV radiation, chemicals, viruses, and genetic mutations. These can lead to abnormal cell growth and division, resulting in tumors and other cancerous growths.

3. How do you diagnose cancer in plants?

Diagnosing cancer in plants can be challenging as the symptoms can vary depending on the type of cancer and the affected plant. However, some common signs to look for include abnormal growths, discoloration, wilting, and stunted growth. A laboratory test can also be performed to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

4. Can plants spread cancer to other plants?

Yes, just like in animals, cancer in plants can sometimes spread to other plants through the transfer of infected tissues or fluids. This can happen naturally through insect vectors or human activities such as pruning and grafting. However, not all types of plant cancer are contagious.

5. Is there a cure for cancer in plants?

Currently, there is no known cure for cancer in plants. However, some treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, have been used to slow down the growth of cancer cells in plants. Proper care and management practices, such as removing infected tissues and improving the plant's immune system, can also help prevent and control cancer in plants.

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