Definition

A type of gene that can make normal cells turn into cancer cells, often by causing them to grow uncontrollably.

Example

Researchers are studying how oncogenes contribute to the development of cancer.

Conversation

Did you hear about the research on oncogene activity in cells?

Yeah, I read something about that; it sounds pretty alarming.

It's crazy how a single oncogene can change a normal cell into a cancerous one.

I know, right? It really makes you think about how genes affect our health.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oncogene is formed from "onco-" (from Greek "onkos", meaning mass or tumor) and "gene" (from Greek "genes", meaning born of or produced by). The word refers to a gene that has the potential to cause cancer, essentially a gene that can lead to the formation of a tumor.

Memory Tip

Think of 'onkos' meaning a mass or tumor, and 'gene' meaning something that is produced. This helps you remember that an oncogene is a gene that can lead to the formation of a tumor.

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