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[Oncogenes and bronchial cancer]
E Brambilla1, B Wuyam, C Brambilla
1Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, C.H.R. de Grenoble.
Abstract:
Oncogenes are genes for malignant transformation which correspond to changes, by genetic mutation, of genes which are present in all normal eukaryotic cells, called proto-oncogenes. The latter are involved in physiological functions often controlling growth and cell differentiation. Their mechanism of action and the activation of oncogenes are successively anticipated. These oncogenes are implicated in the majority of cancers and in particular in bronchial carcinoma: the myc-oncogenes (c-myc, N myc, L myc) are primarily activated in small cell carcinomas (CPC), the Ras genes (Ki Ras, Ha Ras) in epidermoid and adeno carcinomas. The intervention of growth factors such as bombesin in CPC and of their receptors such as epithelial growth factor (EGF) in non small cell bronchial carcinomas has been shown, as well as the role of cytogenic abnormalities (deletion of the short arm of chromosome 3). Their relation to oncogenes is discussed. The knowledge acquired on oncogenes in bronchial carcinoma should shed light on the pathogenesis of these cancers and find its next application in the diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic field.
Insights
Oncogenes, mutated proto-oncogenes, drive cancer development. Understanding their role in bronchial carcinoma aids in diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Context:
- Proto-oncogenes are normal genes regulating cell growth and differentiation.
- Oncogenes arise from mutations in proto-oncogenes, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation.
- Oncogenes are implicated in various cancers, including bronchial carcinoma.
Purpose:
- To elucidate the mechanism of oncogene activation.
- To explore the specific roles of oncogenes in different types of bronchial carcinoma.
- To discuss the relationship between growth factors, cytogenetic abnormalities, and oncogene activation in lung cancer.
Summary:
- Oncogenes are altered proto-oncogenes driving malignant transformation.
- Specific oncogenes like myc and Ras are activated in distinct lung cancer subtypes (small cell vs. non-small cell).
- Growth factors (e.g., bombesin) and their receptors (e.g., EGF), along with chromosomal deletions, are linked to oncogene activity in lung cancer.
Impact:
- Advances in understanding oncogene involvement in lung cancer pathogenesis.
- Potential for improved diagnostic and prognostic tools for bronchial carcinoma.
- Future therapeutic strategies targeting oncogenes in lung cancer treatment.