How Do Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes Differ?
Oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes play crucial roles in the regulation of cell growth and division. Oncogenes are mutated forms of normal genes (proto-oncogenes) that promote uncontrolled cell proliferation. Tumor suppressor genes, in contrast, act as the brakes on cell division. When these genes are mutated or inactivated, cells can grow uncontrollably, leading to cancer. Examples of oncogenes include HER2 and MYC, while well-known tumor suppressor genes include TP53 and BRCA1.
