What does oncogene mean?
An oncogene is a gene that can help turn a normal cell into a cancerous one when it becomes abnormally active. In its usual, healthy form, the corresponding gene is called a proto-oncogene and normally regulates cell growth, division, or survival. Mutations, gene amplification, or excessive expression can push an oncogene into an overactive state, allowing uncontrolled cell growth and contributing to cancer. Researchers identify oncogenes in tumor samples and may develop targeted treatments that inhibit the proteins they produce. The word combines the Greek root for “bulk” or “mass,” especially a tumor, with “gene,” reflecting its role in cancer biology. It is a technical term most common in medical and molecular-biological contexts.
nounA gene whose abnormal activation or mutation can promote the development of cancer. Oncogenes are altered or overactive forms of normal genes called proto-oncogenes.
- A gene that, when mutated, amplified, or otherwise abnormally activated, can promote tumor formation.
"The researchers identified a mutation that turns the tumor-suppressor gene into an oncogene."
"The altered oncogene was active in several samples from the patient's tumor."
"Scientists blocked the oncogene to test whether the cancer cells stopped multiplying."
Used when referring to multiple cancer-promoting genes or to multiple distinct oncogenes in scientific discussion.
"Different patients may harbor distinct oncogenes in the same tumor type."
An oncogene is a cell-growth accelerator whose emergency brake has failed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does oncogene come from?
The word combines the combining form onco-, derived from Greek onkos, meaning “bulk” or “mass,” especially a tumor, with gene. The suffix therefore gives the word a sense of “a gene associated with tumor formation.” Its modern scientific meaning developed alongside the study of cellular genetics and cancer biology.
Related word forms
How oncogene is actually used
The term is primarily used in medicine, molecular biology, and cancer research. It is not interchangeable with every cancer-associated gene: oncogenes promote cancer, whereas tumor-suppressor genes normally prevent it.
Easily confused with oncogene
A proto-oncogene is a normal gene that regulates cell growth, whereas an oncogene is an abnormal, overactive form that can promote cancer.
A tumor-suppressor gene normally restrains cell division and helps prevent cancer, while an oncogene promotes cell growth when activated or mutated.