RET proto-oncogene

The RET proto-oncogene (pronounced: /rɛt/; etymology: rearranged during transfection) is a gene that encodes for a protein involved in cell signaling. It is a member of the receptor tyrosine kinase family of proteins, which play a key role in regulating cellular processes such as growth, differentiation, and survival.

Function

The RET proto-oncogene is crucial for the development and function of several types of neurons. It is involved in the GDNF family ligand-mediated signaling pathway, which is important for the survival and differentiation of specific types of neurons during development.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the RET proto-oncogene can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, mutations can cause Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN2), a disorder characterized by the development of tumors in endocrine glands. Other conditions associated with RET mutations include Hirschsprung's disease, a condition affecting the large intestine, and Familial Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (FMTC), a type of thyroid cancer.

Related terms

Oncogene: A gene that has the potential to cause cancer. In tumor cells, these genes are often mutated or expressed at high levels.
Proto-oncogene: A normal gene that can become an oncogene due to mutations or increased expression.
Tyrosine kinase: An enzyme that can transfer a phosphate group from ATP to a protein in a cell. It functions as an "on" or "off" switch in many cellular functions.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on RET proto-oncogene
Wikipedia's article - RET proto-oncogene

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RET proto-oncogene