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[Oncogene expression and cell transformation]
Abstract:
Recent studies on transforming genes of retroviruses have revealed that these viral transforming genes (v-onc) were derived from prototype genes (c-onc) present in normal cells. These c-onc genes are believed to carry out some unknown but important functions for cells to proliferate or differentiate. As a plausible mechanism of carcinogenesis it has been proposed that cells in which one of these onc genes happen to be expressed to abnormal extent as a result of mutations in controlling elements or as a result of infection with viruses containing these genes would become cancerous. In this article, the common features of products of genetically different viral onc genes found in avian sarcoma viruses and their cellular onc genes are described. Experiments of recovered ASV suggesting close relationship between viral and cellular genes and studies on mechanism of cell transformation by these viral gene products are also presented.
Insights
Viral oncogenes (v-onc) originate from cellular proto-oncogenes (c-onc) in normal cells. Aberrant expression of these genes can lead to cancer, with avian sarcoma viruses offering insights into this mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Genetics
- Oncology
Context:
- Retroviral transforming genes (v-onc) are derived from cellular proto-oncogenes (c-onc).
- Proto-oncogenes have essential roles in normal cell proliferation and differentiation.
- Abnormal expression of oncogenes is a proposed mechanism for carcinogenesis.
Purpose:
- To describe common features of avian sarcoma virus (ASV) oncogene products and their cellular counterparts.
- To present experimental evidence on the relationship between viral and cellular oncogenes.
- To explore the mechanism of cell transformation mediated by viral oncogene products.
Summary:
- Viral oncogenes (v-onc) share common features with cellular proto-oncogenes (c-onc).
- Experiments with recovered ASV indicate a close relationship between viral and cellular oncogenes.
- Studies investigate how viral oncogene products induce cell transformation.
Impact:
- Elucidates the origin and function of oncogenes in cancer development.
- Provides a foundation for understanding viral carcinogenesis.
- Offers insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cell transformation.