Oncogene

An oncogene is a gene that has the potential to cause cancer. It can be inherited or acquired by mutation, and when it becomes active, it causes normal cells to become cancerous. Oncogenes play an important role in cancer development, as they regulate the growth and division of cells, which can cause uncontrolled cell growth when mutated. Oncogenes are therefore being intensely studied to better understand cancer and to develop therapies targeted at specific oncogenes.