How Do Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressor Genes Influence Transformation?
Oncogenes are genes that, when mutated or overexpressed, can drive the uncontrolled proliferation of cells. Examples include RAS and MYC. Tumor suppressor genes, such as TP53 and RB1, normally act to inhibit cell growth and promote apoptosis. Mutations that inactivate these genes remove critical growth constraints, facilitating transformation.