Medical Review · Published 2026-07-15 · DOI 10.1515/mr-2026-0026
Qianqian Chen, Shuai Tian, Enqiang Linghu
Malignant tumors have long been viewed as uncontrolled cell proliferation driven by somatic mutations. However, emerging multi-omics and microenvironment evidence challenges this paradigm. Advanced tumors transcend cellular abnormality to form a “neoorgan” – a complex tissue ecosystem with multicellular coordination, functional autonomy, metabolic symbiosis, neural integration, and evolutionary potential. Genomic instability generates lineage-specific karyotypes; tumors reactivate ancient gene modules from primitive multicellular organisms; they actively remodel immune function via mitochondrial transfer; and they establish functional connections with the nervous system. Based on this evolutionary trajectory, we propose testable predictions: tumors may progress from a parasitic neoorgan toward an independent species, as exemplified by naturally occurring transmissible tumors and the “tumor-derived animal” hypothesis. Recognizing cancer as an evolutionary entity striving for independence – rather than a mere genetic malfunction – demands a fundamental shift in therapeutic strategy. Instead of solely cytotoxic “killing”, rational approaches may aim to reintegrate the tumor into host regulatory networks or guide its evolution toward self-destruction. This framework expands tumor biology and challenges conventional boundaries between disease, life, and species.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
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Chen, Q., Tian, S., Linghu, E. (2026). Evolution of malignant tumors as neoorgan and predictions of future scenarios resulting from inappropriate treatment. Medical Review. https://doi.org/10.1515/mr-2026-0026