Int. J. Dev. Biol. 56: 939 - 948 (2012)

https://doi.org/10.1387/ijdb.120255ja

Vol 56, Issue 10-11-12

Special Issue: Female Germ Cells in Development & Tumors

Above the borderland between normal and neoplastic development

Open Access | Interview | Published: 13 December 2012

Juan Aréchaga*^,1 and Ivan Damjanov²

¹Laboratory of Stem Cells, Development and Cancer. Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of the Basque Country, Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain and ²Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.

Abstract

This dialogue between the Editor-in-Chief of the Int. J. Dev. Biol. and a leading figure in human pathology and mammalian embryology highlights the close links between the biological interpretation of neoplasia and differentiation processes which normally occur during development, particularly in the case of teratomas. In addition, it emphasizes how a capacity for work, a firm will to progress, and enthusiasm for science and medical practice can overcome the not insignificant obstacles with which one meets during a life of scientific, academic and clinical dedication.

Keywords

pathology, development, differentiation, teratoma, teratocarcinoma, germinal cell, Cancer Biology