The genetic changes in multi-step carcinogenesis often involve mutations in several key types of genes:
Oncogenes Oncogenes are mutated forms of proto-oncogenes, which normally help cells grow. When these genes are mutated, they can drive uncontrolled cell proliferation.
Tumor Suppressor Genes These genes normally function to control cell growth and division. Mutations in tumor suppressor genes, such as TP53, can disable these regulatory mechanisms, allowing cells to grow uncontrollably.
DNA Repair Genes Mutations in DNA repair genes can impair the cell's ability to fix DNA damage, leading to the accumulation of additional genetic alterations.
