What is the Difference Between Oncogenes and Oncoprotein?

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The main difference between oncogenes and oncoproteins lies in their composition and function:

Oncogenes:

  • Oncogenes are tumor-inducing genes formed due to a mutation in proto-oncogenes.
  • They are composed of nucleic acids.
  • Oncogenes are responsible for cancer development, as they can cause uncontrolled cell division.
  • Most oncogenes are activated via point mutations, gene amplifications, and gene translocations.

Oncoproteins:

  • Oncoproteins are the products coded by oncogenes.
  • They are proteins made up of amino acids.
  • Oncoproteins play a role in promoting cell growth, division, and survival.

In summary, oncogenes are genes that, when mutated, can cause cancer by promoting uncontrolled cell division. Oncoproteins are the proteins produced by oncogenes, which participate in cellular processes that contribute to cancer development.

Comparative Table: Oncogenes vs Oncoprotein

Here is a table summarizing the differences between oncogenes and oncoproteins:

Feature Oncogenes Oncoproteins
Definition Oncogenes are cancerous genes formed due to a change or mutation in the DNA sequence of proto-oncogenes. Oncoproteins are the products coded by oncogenes, which are proteins made up of amino acids.
Composition Oncogenes are composed of nucleic acids. Oncoproteins are proteins.
Formation Oncogenes are formed due to several genetic modifications or mechanisms, such as gene amplification and chromosomal translocations. Oncoproteins are produced when oncogenes are expressed.
Role in Cancer Oncogenes play a crucial role in the development of cancer by causing uncontrolled cell division. Oncoproteins contribute to the abnormal behavior of malignant cells and the development of tumors.

In summary, oncogenes are mutated genes that can lead to cancer, while oncoproteins are the proteins coded by these oncogenes. Oncogenes contribute to the development of cancer by causing uncontrolled cell division, and oncoproteins play a role in the abnormal behavior of malignant cells and tumor development.