Prostate cancer cells, SEM

Prostate cancer cells, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM).The prostate gland is a walnut sized gland at the base of the bladder and is found only in men. Prostate cancer can develop when the cells in the prostate start to divide and multiply in an uncontrolled manner. Prostate cancer often starts slowly and may never cause problems but some men have prostate cancer that is more likely to spread and is therefore more problematic. Statistically, currently 84% of men survive prostate cancer for 10 years or more. These cells are displaying a process known as blebbing. Blebbing (blue) is a bulge or protrusion of the plasma membrane of the cell which is visible on the cell surface. Blebbing is often seen during programmed cell death (apoptosis) or may be seen when a cell is undergoing physical or chemical stresses. It also has important functions in cellular processes such as cell locomotion, playing a role in cell migration. Magnification: x1700 when printed at 10cm wide, by Anne Weston, EM STP, the Francis Crick Institute