[Oncogenes, anti-oncogenes and their alterations in human tumors]

P Jeanteur1, C Theillet, H Pujol

  • 1Centre Val d'Aurelle-Paul Lamarque, Parc Euromédecine, Montpellier.

La Revue De Medecine Interne
|May 1, 1990
PubMed

Insights

This review covers oncogenes, which are mutated proto-oncogenes controlling cell growth. Understanding these and tumor suppressor genes aids in assessing cancer prognosis and genetic risk.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Cancer Biology

Context:

  • Proto-oncogenes are vital for normal cell proliferation and differentiation.
  • Oncogenes arise from the activation of proto-oncogenes.
  • Tumor suppressor genes counterbalance the effects of oncogenes.

Purpose:

  • To review the discovery and role of oncogenes.
  • To highlight the importance of the balance between oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes.
  • To explore the potential of gene profiling for clinical applications.

Summary:

  • Oncogenes are activated proto-oncogenes that disrupt cellular growth control.
  • The balance between oncogenes and anti-oncogenes (tumor suppressors) is crucial for normal cell function.
  • Alterations in these genes impact cell proliferation and differentiation pathways.

Impact:

  • Gene profiling of oncogenes and tumor suppressors can predict cancer prognosis.
  • Identifying genetic alterations may reveal predisposition to cancer in healthy individuals.
  • This knowledge is invaluable for personalized medicine and risk assessment.

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