Cancer biology: Oncogenes and tumor suppressors Oncogenes: An oncogene is a gene that is activated in cancer cells. When an oncogene is activated, it pr...
Cancer biology: Oncogenes and tumor suppressors
Oncogenes:
An oncogene is a gene that is activated in cancer cells. When an oncogene is activated, it produces a protein that promotes cell growth, proliferation, and survival. Examples of oncogenes include BRCA1, TP53, and RAS genes.
Tumor suppressors:
A tumor suppressor is a gene that is activated in normal cells. When a tumor suppressor is activated, it produces a protein that inhibits cell growth, proliferation, and survival. Examples of tumor suppressors include BRCA2, TP73, and PTEN genes.
The balance between oncogenes and tumor suppressors is critical for maintaining normal cell function. When the balance is disrupted, cancer cells can proliferate and survive, leading to the development of cancer.
The study of oncogenes and tumor suppressors is crucial for developing treatments for cancer. By understanding how these genes work, researchers can develop drugs that can block their activity and prevent cancer cells from growing