Transformation

**Semantic type:** Pathologic Function

**Definition:** The conversion of a cell from a normal phenotype, which undergoes a limited number of mitotic divisions, into an aberrant phenotype that is immortal and divides indefinitely. Transformed cells no longer retain cell-cycle checkpoints and may ultimately become malignant cancer cells via additional genetic mutations, or damaging environmental events.

**Synonyms:** - Cell Transformation - Cellular Transformation - Transformed - Transforming - transformation