What is a proto-oncogene?

A proto-oncogene is a normal cellular gene that plays a crucial role in regulating cell growth, differentiation, and division. When functioning correctly, these genes contribute to normal cellular processes. However, they have the potential to become oncogenes—a type of gene that can lead to cancer—if they undergo mutations or are expressed at abnormal levels. This transformation occurs due to various factors, such as inherited mutations or environmental influences.

The concept of proto-oncogenes highlights the fact that not all genes that can lead to cancer are inherently harmful; instead, their regulatory roles are essential for normal cellular function. Mutations can cause proto-oncogenes to become hyperactive or expressed when they shouldn't be, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer development. Thus, the identification of proto-oncogenes is crucial for understanding the mechanisms of cancer and developing targeted treatments.