Tumor suppressing genes, also known as cancer suppressor genes or antioncogenes, are a class of genes that play a crucial role in limiting uncontrolled cell growth and preventing the formation of tumors. These genes act as regulators of cell division, functioning to suppress and inhibit the development of cancerous cells within the body.
Tumor suppressing genes work by either arresting the cell cycle, preventing the abnormal proliferation of cells or by promoting cell death, a process known as apoptosis. They serve as a natural defense mechanism against the initiation and progression of cancer, ensuring the integrity of the cell's DNA, and maintaining gene stability.
Mutations or abnormalities in tumor suppressing genes can significantly impair their function, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and contributing to the development of various types of cancer. Inherited mutations in these genes can also lead to an increased susceptibility to certain types of cancer within families.
Research has identified several well-known tumor suppressing genes, such as TP53 (p53), BRCA1, BRCA2, and PTEN. These genes are involved in various cellular processes, including DNA repair, cell cycle regulation, and the promotion of apoptosis. Understanding the function and regulation of tumor suppressing genes has become a critical area of study in cancer research, as it provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and progression of cancer.
