The spelling of "abl Oncogene Proteins" is rather complex. "Abl" is pronounced /æbəl/, with the stress on the first syllable. "Oncogene" is pronounced /ˈɑn.ko.ˌdʒin/, with the stress on the first syllable once again. "Proteins" is pronounced /ˈproʊˌti.ɪnz/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word "abl" comes from a fusion transcript typically found in leukemic cells called the "abl oncogene." These proteins play a role in cell signaling and growth, and their dysregulation can contribute to cancer development.
ABL oncogene proteins refer to a group of proteins that are abnormal forms of the ABL gene product, which commonly play a role in promoting the development and progression of certain types of cancers. The ABL gene is a proto-oncogene, meaning it has the potential to become an oncogene and contribute to the formation of cancer when it becomes mutated or altered.
The ABL oncogene proteins are typically the result of a chromosomal rearrangement or translocation, where the ABL gene fuses with another gene, most commonly the BCR gene. This fusion creates a hybrid gene that produces an abnormal protein with increased tyrosine kinase activity. Tyrosine kinases are enzymes that play a vital role in cell signaling and regulation, controlling various cellular functions.
The increased activity of ABL oncogene proteins disrupts the normal functions of cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and division, which are characteristics of cancer. Consequently, these abnormal proteins can lead to the development of various malignancies, such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
Understanding the role and function of ABL oncogene proteins is crucial for the development of targeted therapies that specifically inhibit their activity, thereby suppressing the abnormal cellular signaling and blocking cancer progression. Several targeted therapies, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, have been developed to specifically target ABL oncogene proteins in different types of cancer, improving treatment outcomes and patient survival.