Onkogeeneiksi

Onkogeeneiksi, also known as oncogenes, are genes that have the potential to cause cancer when they are activated or overexpressed. They are typically normal genes that play a role in cell growth, differentiation, and survival. However, when these genes become mutated or overactive, they can promote uncontrolled cell growth and division, leading to the development of cancer.

Oncogenes can be categorized into several types based on their function. Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that can become oncogenes when mutated. They encode proteins that regulate cell growth and differentiation. Examples include RAS and MYC. Oncogenes can also be categorized based on their location in the cell, such as membrane-bound oncogenes, which are located on the cell membrane and include proteins like HER2. Lastly, oncogenes can be classified based on their mechanism of action, such as tyrosine kinase oncogenes, which encode proteins that have tyrosine kinase activity and include proteins like SRC and ABL.

The discovery of oncogenes has been instrumental in understanding the molecular mechanisms of cancer. They have also led to the development of targeted therapies that specifically inhibit the activity of oncogenes, providing new treatment options for cancer patients. However, the activation of oncogenes is just one of many factors that contribute to cancer development, and a comprehensive understanding of cancer requires the study of multiple molecular pathways.