Oncogenes Health Dictionary

Genes found in every cell that control growth, repair, and replacement.

Abnormalities of oncogenes are known to be a factor in the development of cancerous cells.

Mutations in oncogenes, resulting from damage by carcinogens, can cause a cell to grow unrestrainedly and infiltrate and destroy normal tissues (see cancer).

Factors known to cause cancer include ultraviolet light, radioactivity, tobacco, alcohol, asbestos, some chemicals, and certain viruses.

GENES found in mammalian cells and viruses that can cause cancer. They are believed to manufacture the proteins that control the division of cells. In certain circumstances this control malfunctions and a normal cell may be changed into one with MALIGNANT properties. Extensive research is being done with oncogenes with the aim of ?nding ways to prevent or control cancers.