Random mutations play large role in cancer, study finds

Analysis suggests that cell division produces more malignancy-linked errors than environment, inheritance

GROWING PAINS  As cells divide and grow to replenish and repair organs, accidental mutations may crop up in cancer-associated genes. A new study suggests such random mistakes are the source of 66 percent of mutations in cancer cells (illustrated here) across the board.

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Researchers have identified new enemies in the war on cancer: ones that are already inside cells and that no one can avoid.