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Role of Oncogenes and Tumor-suppressor Genes in Carcinogenesis: A Review
Emmanuel N Kontomanolis1, Antonios Koutras2, Athanasios Syllaios3
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.
Abstract:
Cancer is a medical condition which has a molecular basis. Proto-oncogenes are the first regulatory factors of this biological process. They act in transmitting signals, resulting as growth factors. Modifications of these genes, called oncogenes, lead to the appearance of cancer cells. The activation process leading to proto-oncogenes are chromosomal translocation, point mutation, and gene amplification. Concerning the clonal theory of oncogenesis, it is believed that a tumor starts from a cell. Furthermore, there is close association between tumor development and inhibition of apoptosis or programmed cell death, providing cell immortality. Angiogenesis and angiogenic factors found to be expressed in tumors and may play a key role in tumor formation and development. Tumor-suppressor genes block the growth of cancer and contribute to the normal development of cells. This article highlights the evidence that neoplasms develop as the after-effect of the increase of acquired and physical genetic variations in proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes; these form a target group in the cells of neoplasms. Tumor formation and development are characterized by individual processes, working synergistically, and an understanding of each individual process may provide a better basis for further anticancer research.
Insights
Cancer arises from genetic changes in proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes. Understanding these molecular alterations and processes like apoptosis and angiogenesis is key for developing new anticancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Cancer is a disease with a molecular basis, involving genetic regulatory factors.
- Proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes are critical in cell growth and cancer development.
- Tumorigenesis involves genetic mutations, apoptosis inhibition, and angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the genetic variations in proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes in neoplasm development.
- To emphasize the synergistic role of individual processes in tumor formation.
- To provide a basis for further anticancer research by understanding these mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Review of evidence on genetic variations in proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes.
- Analysis of the role of apoptosis inhibition and angiogenesis in tumor development.
- Exploration of the clonal theory of oncogenesis.
Main Results:
- Acquired and physical genetic variations in proto-oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes are implicated in neoplasm development.
- Inhibition of apoptosis contributes to cancer cell immortality.
- Angiogenesis plays a significant role in tumor formation and progression.
Conclusions:
- Neoplasms develop due to synergistic genetic variations in key regulatory genes.
- Understanding molecular pathways like apoptosis and angiogenesis is crucial for targeted cancer therapies.
- Further research into these individual processes can advance anticancer strategies.
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