Por João Carvalho (Soft and Biological Matter - CFisUC, Department of Physics, University of Coimbra, Portugal).

Every single day (too) many people die of cancer. However, we are stuck in the same theory of cancer origin (the somatic mutation theory) for one hundred years, without substantial success. This paradigm determines most of the research, from prevention to treatment, and it is probably wrong, or at least highly incomplete! Why are the advancements in cancer not faster and don’t reach the same level of success as other medical conditions and scientific discoveries? A toxic mix of problem complexity and research conservatism constrains many alternative developments and complementary approaches. 

Physics can contribute with new ideas and, most of all, unique ways to look into the problem. The Tissue Organization Field Theory will be introduced and in particular the role played by bioelectricity, plays a pivotal role in tissue organization and regeneration. Bioelectric signals orchestrate cellular activities such as proliferation, migration, and differentiation, guiding the spatial and temporal biological organization. Understanding the mechanisms of bioelectricity in tissue regulation not only elucidates fundamental biological processes but also paves the way for clinical applications that could revolutionize medical treatments and improve health outcomes.

The challenge ahead of us is clearly multidisciplinary and different theories must have a chance to be pursued and be subject to rigorous and intensive experimental tests. A theory driven program in cancer research can accelerate the developments and change the paradigm of prevention, diagnosis and treatment.