Proto oncogene

Proto-oncogene is a normal gene that can become an oncogene due to mutations or increased expression. Proto-oncogenes code for proteins that help to regulate cell growth and differentiation. Proto-oncogenes are often involved in signal transduction and execution of mitogenic signals, usually through their protein products. Upon mutation, a proto-oncogene can become a tumorigenic oncogene.

Function

Proto-oncogenes play crucial roles in growth and division of cells. They can code for proteins such as transcription factors that control gene expression, cell-cycle regulators, and inducers of cell division. When these genes are mutated, the proteins are always active, making the cell divide too often, which can lead to cancer.

Mutation

Mutations in proto-oncogenes can modify their expression and function, pushing the cell towards malignant growth. These mutations can be caused by various factors including radiation, viruses, chemical carcinogens, and aging. The mutation causes the proto-oncogene to function as an oncogene, which can cause normal cells to become cancerous.

Examples

Some examples of proto-oncogenes include RAS, MYC, ERK, and TRK. These genes are not harmful in their normal state, but when they are mutated or expressed at high levels, they can become oncogenic.

See also

• Oncogene
• Tumor suppressor gene
• Cancer
• Mutation