Page 104 - The Miracle of the Immune System

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THE MIRACLE OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

order in their own structure threatening the human body instigate their
own demise to prolong human life.
The cancer takes on a life-threatening form when these decomposed
cells overcome this suicide system. In this case, a second defence mecha-
nism is activated to avoid uncontrolled multiplying of these cells. If they
succeed in surpassing this barrier, too, they then encounter a further stage
known as the "the term of crisis". At this stage, the cells, which have suc-
cessfully escaped from the previous security systems, are killed en masse.
Among these cells, one cell, however, succeeds in overcoming the "crisis".
This "rebellious" cancer cell will transfer its rebellious nature to its de-
scendants, which will multiply in great numbers. The cancerous patient

must now fight an intensive struggle with cancer.
Is it only the uncontrolled, independent and continuously multiply-
ing nature of the cancer cell that brings victory to it? Other reasons lie be-
hind this success.
Cells carry a type of inscription system on their surface which posi-
tions them in the body. This inscription system is decipherable by all the
cells within the human body, helping each cell to know exactly where it
belongs and preventing it from occupying another’s place. This system
ensures the integrity of the tissues. Cells, which are aware of their posi-
tion, neither go anywhere else, nor let any other cell occupy their place,
thus ensuring the maintenance of the body in a healthy state. Cells that
are not located at a certain site or those located at an inappropriate site
will eventually commit suicide. However, with the help of this system, the
suicide process is totally eliminated, as the cells are not allowed to be dis-
located or located in an inappropriate site. This process is not as simple as
it may seem. In order to maintain the effective functioning of this system,

each cell has to identify its own position whilst respecting the locations of
other cells, and being mindful not to invade their sites. These procedures
are taught to them by various mediator molecules which enable these
cells to maintain their respective places. However, there are occasions
when these mediator molecules are absent or unable to fulfil this duty.