Tumor-suppressor gene

A Tumor-suppressor gene or anti-oncogene is a gene that protects a cell from one step on the path to cancer. When this gene mutates to cause a loss or reduction in its function, the cell can progress to cancer, usually in combination with other genetic changes.

Pronunciation

Tumor-suppressor gene: /ˈtjuːmər səˈprɛsər dʒiːn/

Etymology

The term "Tumor-suppressor gene" is derived from the Latin word "tumor" meaning swelling, and the English word "suppressor" which means to put down, suppress, and "gene" from the Greek word "genos" meaning race, kind.

Function

The function of a tumor-suppressor gene is to regulate cell division by keeping cells from growing and dividing too rapidly or in an uncontrolled way. They are involved in controlling cell growth and replication, repairing DNA damage, and controlling cell death (apoptosis).

Examples

Some of the most commonly known tumor-suppressor genes include TP53, BRCA1, BRCA2, APC, PTEN, and RB1.

Mutations

Mutations in tumor-suppressor genes can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and division, or inhibit necessary cell death, both of which can lead to the formation of a tumor. Some mutations may be inherited, while others are acquired during a person's lifetime.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Tumor-suppressor gene
Wikipedia's article - Tumor-suppressor gene

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Tumor-suppressor gene