A gene controlling cellular proliferation which, when altered through mutation or included in a viral genome, can promote neoplastic transformation or normal cells.
A gene in a virus that can prompt a cell to turn malignant.
A hypothetical gene that is passed from parent to offspring that has the potential of developing cancer.
Genes carried by tumour viruses that are directly and solely responsible for the neoplastic (tumorous) transformation of host cells.
Genes within a cell’s DNA that “turn on” the process of cell division (replication) at appropriate time(s) during the life of each cell in an organism. When oncogenes are mutated (e.g., via exposure to cigarette smoke or ultraviolet light), those oncogenes can become cancer-causing genes, some of which (e.g., erythroblastosis virus gene) are almost identical to the gene for epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (i.e., oncogene is a “deformed copy” of that gene). Such mutated oncogenes code for (i.e., cause to be made) proteins (e.g., protein kinases, protein phosphorylating enzymes, etc.) that trigger uncontrolled cell growth. They sometimes may consist of a human chromosome that has viral nucleic acid material incorporated into it and is a permanent part of that chromosome.
A part of the genetic system which causes malignant tumours to develop.
Gene in a virus that is able to produce a malignant change in an infected cell; several have been identified in human tissue as potential causes of cancer. Researchers are attempting to isolate anti-oncogenes that suppress tumors and may be used in the treatment of cancer. Certain oncogenes may play a role in normal growth and development; if they are damaged or mutated, cancer may result.
Genes that contribute to the transformation of normal cells into cancerous cells. Normal cell growth can go wrong when a gene that stimulates cell growth becomes hyperactive and turns into an oncogene. As a rule, a single oncogene is not sufficient to change normal cells into cancer cells; many mutations in many different genes are usually required.
Genes found in mammalian cells and viruses that can cause cancer. They are believed to manufacture the proteins that control the division of cells. In certain circumstances this control malfunctions and a normal cell may be changed into one with malignant properties. Extensive research is being done into oncogenes in the hope of finding ways to prevent or control cancers.
A gene in a virus that has the ability to induce a cell to become malignant. Oncogenes have been identified in human tumors. In addition to genes that can induce tumor formation, there are antioncogenes that suppress tumors.
A gene that becomes a cancer-causing gene as a result of exposure to a carcinogen.
Genes present in all body cells govern growth, repair, and regeneration. The triggering of an oncogene plays a role in the formation of cancer cells. When oncogenes undergo structural alterations due to harm from carcinogens, it can lead a cell to proliferate without restraint, encroach upon, and ravage healthy tissues. Elements that promote oncogene alterations encompass ultraviolet rays, radiation, tobacco fumes, alcohol, asbestos, and certain chemicals. Moreover, some viruses have the capacity to activate oncogenes.