The c-myc genes refer to a group of cellular oncogenes that play a critical role in regulating cell growth and division. These genes are part of the myc family of proto-oncogenes, which are genes that can potentially transform cells into cancer cells when they become mutated or deregulated.
The c-myc genes are involved in various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. They encode for transcription factors, specifically the c-Myc protein, which controls the expression of numerous target genes involved in cell cycle progression and cell metabolism. The activation of c-myc genes is tightly regulated in healthy cells, but dysregulation can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and the development of cancer.
Mutations or amplifications of c-myc genes have been identified in a wide range of human cancers, such as lymphomas, leukemias, breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. The overexpression of the c-Myc protein is often associated with aggressive tumor behavior, poor prognosis, and resistance to conventional cancer therapies.
Due to its important role in cancer development and progression, c-myc genes have been extensively studied as potential therapeutic targets. Various strategies have been explored to inhibit c-myc expression or activity, including small molecule inhibitors and gene therapy approaches. Targeting c-myc genes holds great promise for the development of novel and effective treatments for cancer.
