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Dictionary - Term: proto-oncogene

Definition

A proto-oncogene refers to a normal gene that can potentially transform into an oncogene, a gene responsible for promoting cancer growth. Proto-oncogenes usually play important roles in normal cell division and regulation, but when mutated or expressed at high levels, they can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and contribute to the development of cancer.

Examples

Example as a noun:

Scientists have identified a new proto-oncogene that is believed to be involved in the progression of breast cancer.

Example as a verb:

The overexpression of the HER2 proto-oncogene has been shown to proto-oncogene to be a significant factor in the development of certain types of tumors.

Example as an adjective:

The research team discovered a mutated version of the proto-oncogene responsible for the rapid tumor growth observed in their recent study.

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