How Do Mutations in Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes Lead to Cancer?
Genes that regulate cell growth and differentiation can be broadly classified into oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Oncogenes are mutated forms of normal genes (proto-oncogenes) that promote cell division and survival. When these genes are mutated, they become overactive and drive uncontrolled cell proliferation. On the other hand, tumor suppressor genes normally function to inhibit cell growth and promote apoptosis. When these genes are inactivated by mutations, their regulatory functions are lost, contributing to cancer development.
