what is an oncogene

An oncogene is a mutated gene that has the potential to cause cancer. Before an oncogene becomes mutated, it is called a proto-oncogene, and it plays a role in regulating normal cell division. Cancer can arise when a proto-oncogene is mutated, changing it into an oncogene and causing the cell to divide and multiply uncontrollably. Some oncogenes work like an accelerator pedal in a car, pushing a cell to divide again and again, while others work like a faulty brake in a car parked on a hill, also causing the cell to divide unchecked. Oncogenes are powerful, and research shows that a single oncogene may trigger cell growth that leads to cancer. Understanding the relationship between oncogenes and cancer helps medical researchers develop treatments targeting oncogenes and effectively treating the cancers that oncogenes cause and support.