Abstract: A complex illness, cancer is caused by the deregulation of important molecular processes that control cellular survival, proliferation, differentiation, and genomic stability. Critical insights into the mechanics of oncogenesis and the creation of targeted therapeutics have been made possible by an understanding of these pathways. This study examines the main signaling cascades linked to cancer, such as the DNA damage response pathways, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, Wnt/β-catenin, and p53. We go over the ways that mutations, epigenetic changes, and environmental influences can either activate or inhibit these pathways, which in turn encourages tumor growth and spread. Additionally, we highlight new and existing therapeutic approaches—such as immunotherapies, monoclonal antibodies, and small molecule inhibitors—that target these molecular pathways. Off-target effects, tumor heterogeneity, and treatment resistance are still problems despite tremendous progress. To improve patient outcomes and create more individualized, efficient treatments, further study into the molecular causes of cancer is necessary.
