Protoonkogenen

Proto-oncogenes are genes that have the potential to become oncogenes, which are genes that can cause cancer when they are mutated or overexpressed. Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that play a role in regulating cell growth, differentiation, and death. They encode proteins that are involved in various cellular processes, such as signal transduction, cell cycle regulation, and DNA repair. Proto-oncogenes are typically activated by mutations or overexpression, which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and division, a hallmark of cancer.

The process by which a proto-oncogene becomes an oncogene is called oncogenesis. This can occur through various mechanisms, including point mutations, gene amplification, chromosomal rearrangements, and epigenetic modifications. Once activated, oncogenes can drive cancer development by altering cellular pathways that control cell proliferation, survival, and invasion.

Proto-oncogenes are not cancer-causing by themselves; they require additional genetic or epigenetic changes to initiate and promote cancer. They are often referred to as "cancer predisposition genes" because they increase the risk of developing cancer when mutated or overexpressed. Examples of proto-oncogenes include RAS, MYC, and SRC, which are involved in signaling pathways that regulate cell growth and differentiation.

The study of proto-oncogenes has provided valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of cancer and has led to the development of targeted therapies that inhibit the activity of specific oncogenes. Understanding the role of proto-oncogenes in cancer development is crucial for the development of new therapeutic strategies and for the prevention of cancer.