Proto-oncogenes can be converted into oncogenes through various mechanisms, including mutations, gene amplification, or chromosomal translocations. Mutations can lead to a gain of function, making the protein product more active than normal. Gene amplification results in an increased number of copies of the proto-oncogene, leading to overexpression. Chromosomal translocations can place the proto-oncogene under the control of a different promoter, causing it to be overexpressed.
