What is an oncogene?

Oncogenes are genes that have the potential to cause cancer when mutated. These genes play a crucial role in the development of cancer by promoting cell growth and survival, leading to uncontrolled cell division and tumor formation.

Oncogenes in Cancer

When normal cells acquire mutations in oncogenes, they have the ability to transform into cancer cells. These mutated oncogenes drive the progression of cancer by enhancing cell proliferation and inhibiting cell death.

Role of Oncogenes in Cancer Development

Oncogenes promote cell growth by encoding proteins that regulate key cellular processes such as cell cycle progression, metabolism, and signaling pathways. These proteins drive the proliferation of cancer cells and enable them to evade mechanisms that control cell growth.

Oncogene Mutations

Genetic alterations in oncogenes can occur through various mechanisms such as point mutations, gene amplifications, or chromosomal translocations. These mutations lead to the constitutive activation of oncogenes, driving continuous cell growth and survival.

Oncogenes and Uncontrolled Cell Division

By promoting cell cycle progression, oncogenes override the normal checkpoints that regulate cell division. This results in uncontrolled cell proliferation and the formation of tumors in various tissues.

Oncogenes in Tumor Formation

Through their ability to stimulate cell growth and inhibit cell death, oncogenes play a critical role in the initiation and progression of tumors. These genes contribute to the development of cancer by driving the expansion of malignant cell populations.