oncogene
nounUK /ˈɒŋkə(ʊ)dʒiːn/
Etymology From onco- + gene.
1
Biology, Genetics, Medicine, Natural sciences, Oncology, Sciences Any gene that contributes to the conversion of a normal cell into a cancerous cell when mutated or expressed at high levels.
- It was obvious from the start what kinds of genes oncogenes would turn out to be – genes that encourage cells to grow.1999, Matt Ridley, Genome, Harper Perennial, published 2004, page 234:
- Derived terms
- antioncogene, proto-oncogene