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 information². Except for sperm and eggs, all human cells contain 46 chromosomes².

DNA - DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid. It is the genetic “blueprint” found in each cell³. DNA holds genetic information on cell growth, division, and function³.

gene - A piece of DNA that has information on hereditary traits such as hair color, eye color, and height³. Genes can also reveal susceptibility to certain diseases³.

genome - The total DNA in a single cell, representing all of the genetic information of the organism³.

genomics - The study of genomes.

malignant - Having the potential to invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant areas of the body⁴.

mesothelioma - A rare form of cancer⁵. Also the term used to describe a cancerous tumor that involves the mesothelial cells of an organ⁵.

microRNA (miRNA) - MicroRNAs are short strands of ribonucleic acid, or RNA.4 Like RNA, they carry messages that direct the body’s functions⁶. They have been linked with cancer and development⁶.

pleural - Relating to the membrane that covers the outside of the lung⁷.

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.