Tumorigenic cells are cells that have the ability to form a tumor. This property is typically associated with cancer cells, as they have undergone mutations or changes that allow them to proliferate uncontrollably and form masses of cells, which we recognize as tumors.

A cell becomes tumorigenic due to a variety of factors. This typically involves mutations in specific genes that regulate the cell cycle, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and DNA repair. When these genes are functioning normally, they help to maintain the balance of cell growth and death, ensuring that cells are replaced as needed without excessive proliferation. When these genes are mutated, cells may begin to grow uncontrollably, resist apoptosis, and accumulate further mutations due to impaired DNA repair, leading to the development of cancer.

The mutations that lead to tumorigenicity can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, viruses, certain lifestyle factors (like tobacco use, diet, and lack of physical activity), and inherited genetic mutations.

One important aspect of tumorigenic cells is their ability to avoid detection and destruction by the immune system. This is achieved through a variety of mechanisms, including the suppression of immune responses and the secretion of molecules that create a protective environment around the tumor.

Finally, another key characteristic of tumorigenic cells is their ability to invade other tissues and spread (metastasize) throughout the body, which is a major factor in the severity and lethality of many cancers.