what is oncogene?(important for me)

negintk · New User Joined: 24 Mar 2005 Posts: 5 Location: iran

hello
i need to finde something about cellular & molecular in cancer.
please send me some site or what ever can help me.

thank you

HiTech · New User Joined: 12 Jun 2005 Posts: 2

an oncogene is the name for any gene which codes for a protein that is directly involved in regulation of cell growth and proliferation. The non-mutated working form of these genes are known as proto-oncogenes, and are responsible for controlling how you're cells divide and grow on a reguar basis. When mutated, these genes are known as oncogenes, since these genes code for proteins that regulate cell growth and proliferation it is reasonable to conclude that mutations in them MAY lead to cancer (where cancer is the loss of cellular control on proliferation and growth).

These modified oncogenic proteins can mimic a growth factor, mimic a growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), mimic a transducer, or mimic a cytosolic/nuclear intermediates of a signalling pathway.

The second class of genes that lead to cancer are called tumor suppressor genes (or anti-oncogenes). These genes when working properly restrain cellular division (provide a 'do not divide' signal to the cell). When mutated this control mechanism is lost.

The hardest part of treating cancer is that cancer can be caused by any number of combinations of oncogene/tumor suppressor gene mutations. Often it takes a substantial level of mutation before cell division control is lost (our cells are VERY adept at controlling themselves), so one single mutation wont lead to cancer. Mutations can be caused by UV radiation (light), toxins, free radicals, etc. etc. Which is why we must make sure to eat healthily (many plants have antioxidant properties), excercise, wear sun screen .. etc. etc. heh.

Anyways, if you have anymore questions, feel free to email me, i've got a degree in Biochemistry and have led an active role in a proteomic targetted approach to breast cancer and prostate cancer lab research.

Jason Smile

leo · Owner Joined: 23 Sep 2004 Posts: 1574

Dear Jason

Thanks for answering her question. She actually posted somewhere else and I had answered there. But I appreciate your willingness to offer your knowledge here.

best regards,
Leo
_________________
Leonardo F - Webmaster Cancer Forums
Disclaimer: this information is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice.

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