Oncogene: meaning, definitions and examples
๐งฌ
oncogene
[ หษลkษสdสiหn ]
genetics, cancer
An oncogene is a gene that has the potential to cause cancer. It is typically a mutated form of a normal gene, known as a proto-oncogene, which is involved in cell growth and division. When this gene is altered, it can lead to uncontrolled cellular proliferation and tumor formation. Oncogenes can be activated by various factors, including mutations, chromosomal translocations, and viral infections. Understanding oncogenes is crucial in cancer research, as they provide insights into the mechanisms of tumor development and potential therapeutic targets.
Synonyms
cancer gene, tumor gene.
Examples of usage
- Mutations in oncogenes can lead to rapid cell division.
- Research on oncogenes is vital for developing cancer treatments.
- Oncogenes can be activated by exposure to certain chemicals.
- Studying oncogenes helps identify cancer risks.
Translations
Translations of the word "oncogene" in other languages:
๐ต๐น oncogene
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคจเฅเคเฅเคเฅเคจ
๐ฉ๐ช Onkogen
๐ฎ๐ฉ onkogen
๐บ๐ฆ ะพะฝะบะพะณะตะฝ
๐ต๐ฑ onkogen
๐ฏ๐ต ใชใณใณใธใผใณ
๐ซ๐ท oncogรจne
๐ช๐ธ oncogรฉn
๐น๐ท onkogen
๐ฐ๐ท ์จ์ฝ๊ฒ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฌูููุฑุงู
๐จ๐ฟ onkogen
๐ธ๐ฐ onkogรฉn
๐จ๐ณ ็ๅบๅ
๐ธ๐ฎ onkogen
๐ฎ๐ธ รณnkogen
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะพะฝะบะพะณะตะฝ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ onkogen
๐ฒ๐ฝ oncogรฉn
Etymology
The term 'oncogene' is derived from the combination of the Greek word 'onkos' meaning mass or tumor, and the Latin word 'gene' which relates to genetics. The concept of oncogenes emerged in the 1970s when scientists began to understand that certain genes could lead to the transformation of normal cells into cancerous cells. This research was propelled by the discovery of viruses that could induce cancer in animals and the recognition that similar mechanisms might occur in human cancers. As molecular biology techniques advanced, the identification and classification of various oncogenes accelerated, leading to significant insights into cancer etiology and potential treatment avenues. The recognition of oncogenes marked a turning point in cancer research, highlighting the importance of genetic factors in the development of tumors.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #24,938, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 24935 separatism
- 24936 retake
- 24937 humorist
- 24938 oncogene
- 24939 constabulary
- 24940 midshipmen
- 24941 numbing
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