Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Double Whole Mount in situ Hybridization of Early Chick Embryos
Published on: October 27, 2008
Fos and jun: two into one will go
1Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, London, UK.
Abstract:
c-jun was the first oncogene to be identified as a transcription factor thus realizing the long-standing prediction that gene regulation plays a fundamental role in growth control. Not so predictable was that this protein is assisted in its function by a second proto-oncogene, c-fos; that the transcription factor they help comprise transducers hormonal signals; and that each are the archetypal members of gene families. Here, I describe the remarkable progress that has been made from the initial characterization of these oncogenes to our current understanding of their normal cellular function.
Insights
The discovery of c-jun as a transcription factor revealed gene regulation
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Gene Regulation
Background:
- The identification of c-jun as the first oncogene transcription factor.
- The prediction that gene regulation is crucial for growth control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the progress in understanding c-jun and c-fos.
- To elucidate their normal cellular functions.
Main Methods:
- Review of initial characterization studies.
- Analysis of current understanding of oncogene function.
Main Results:
- c-jun functions with c-fos as a transcription factor.
- This complex transduces hormonal signals.
- Both are archetypal members of gene families.
Conclusions:
- Significant progress has been made in understanding these oncogenes.
- Their normal cellular roles are now better understood.
Related Concept Videos
Imprinting
Lewis Symbols and the Octet Rule
Balancing Redox Equations
Functional Groups
Two Force Member
Conjugation

