oncogene

[ ong-kuh-jeen ]

noun

, Genetics.

1. any gene that is a causative factor in the initiation of cancerous growth.

oncogene

/ ˈɒŋkəʊˌdʒiːn /

noun

1. any of several genes, first identified in viruses but present in all cells, that when abnormally activated can cause cancer

oncogene

/ ŏn′kə-jēn /

1. A gene that causes normal cells to become cancerous either because the gene is mutated or because the gene is expressed at the wrong time in development.
2. See Note at cancer

oncogene

1. Genes in animal DNA that cause cancer .

Notes

Every cell contains genes that, when altered slightly, can become oncogenes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of oncogene¹

First recorded in 1965–70; onco- + gene

Word History and Origins

Origin of oncogene¹

C20 from Gk onkos mass, tumour + gene

Example Sentences

Houlahan and Curtis decided to focus on oncogenes, normal genes that, when mutated, can free a cell from regulatory pathways meant to keep it on the straight and narrow.

From Science Daily

He expressed optimism by saying, "Given ETV4's substantial implications as a critical oncogene, we envision leveraging this insight to devise technologies aimed at controlling cancer cells through mechanical cues."

From Science Daily

Having shown that quelling the fused oncogene killed tumor cells, they decided to experiment with derailing kinase A activity, which research indicated was driving tumor growth.

From Science Daily

TRABI-Seq is being tested on various cancer cells to determine trabectedin's efficacy in targeting tumors with advanced DNA repair capabilities, often associated with elevated transcription levels due to oncogene activation.

From Science Daily

Many other stresses also induce cellular senescence in a laboratory setting, such as DNA damage, oncogene activation, and epigenetic changes.

From Science Daily