How Do Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes Contribute to Cancer?
Oncogenes are mutated forms of normal genes known as proto-oncogenes. When proto-oncogenes mutate, they become permanently activated and can lead to cancer. Examples include the RAS gene, which is involved in cell signaling pathways that control cell growth and differentiation. On the other hand, tumor suppressor genes, such as TP53 or the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, function to restrain cell proliferation. Mutations or deletions in these genes remove the checks and balances on cell growth, contributing to the development of cancer.
