Final answer:
MP1 distinguishes between normal and cancer cells by identifying alterations in specific genetic markers and cell-surface antigens. The immune system uses cell-surface antigens to detect cancerous cells, and methods like microarray analysis are employed to understand the cancer's gene expression pattern.
Step-by-step explanation:
MP1 discerns between normal cells and cancer cells primarily through the recognition of specific genetic markers and cell-surface antigens that are altered in cancerous cells. Tumor markers can be produced by the tumor or by the body's response to the presence of a tumor, with an example being the elevated prostate-specific antigen that suggests prostate cancer. Additionally, cell-surface antigens are essential in distinguishing between self and non-self, enabling the immune system to identify and destroy cancerous cells. A cancer cell's unique pattern of gene expression, which can be analyzed using microarray technology, provides insights into the specific form of cancer, helping in the diagnosis and treatment selection.
Natural killer cells play a role in this recognition process. They typically look for MHC I molecules on the surface of cells. Healthy cells present MHC I and are not targeted by natural killer cells, whereas cancerous or infected cells that have reduced MHC I expression are targeted and destroyed. Metabolomics and proteomics are also useful for detecting changes in metabolic processes and biomarkers indicative of cancer, respectively. These methods rely on metabolic activities inherent to cancer cells and also help differentiate between normal and abnormal cells.