biopsy - The removal of a sample of tissue (to see if cancer cells are present, for example).1

chromosome - The part of a cell that contains genetic information.2 Except for sperm and eggs, all human cells contain 46 chromosomes.2

DNA - DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid. It is the genetic “blueprint” found in each cell.3 DNA holds genetic information on cell growth, division, and function.3

gene - A piece of DNA that has information on hereditary traits such as hair color, eye color, and height.3 Genes can also reveal susceptibility to certain diseases.3

genome - The total DNA in a single cell, representing all of the genetic information of the organism.3

genomics - The study of genomes.

malignant - Having the potential to invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant areas of the body.4

mesothelioma - A rare form of cancer.5 Also the term used to describe a cancerous tumor that involves the mesothelial cells of an organ.5

microRNA (miRNA) - MicroRNAs are short strands of ribonucleic acid, or RNA.4 Like RNA, they carry messages that direct the body’s functions.6 They have been linked with cancer and development.6

pleural - Relating to the membrane that covers the outside of the lung.5

1. American Cancer Society Web site. Accessed February 22, 2009.
2. National Cancer Institute Web site. Accessed March 2, 2009.
3. American Cancer Society Web site. Accessed February 22, 2009.
4. American Cancer Society Web site. Accessed February 22, 2009.
5. Asbestosis mesothelioma information and resource guide. Accessed February 22, 2009.
6. Meiri E, Spector Y, Cohen L, et al. MicroRNAs as powerful diagnostic tools for the differential diagnosis of lung tumors. Presented at: 44th American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting; May 30-June 3, 2008; Chicago, IL. Abstract 11112.
7. Minnesota partnership researchers discover disease “fingerprint”: interferon signature in dermatomyositis. Mayo Clinic Web site. Published April 2, 2007. Accessed February 23, 2009.