Cancer Genetics Lecture Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the Cancer Genetics lecture, covering definitions related to cancer, genetic mutations, and associated genes.

Cancer

A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell division.

Proto-oncogene

A normal gene that, when mutated, can become an oncogene leading to cancer.

Tumor suppressor gene

A gene that normally suppresses cell division and function to prevent tumor growth; mutations can lead to cancer.

Retinoblastoma

A rare childhood cancer of the retina associated with mutations in the RB gene.

BRCA1

A gene involved in DNA repair; mutations are linked to increased breast cancer risk.

Knudson multistep model of cancer

A model proposing that cancer develops through the accumulation of mutations, specifically in both alleles of a gene.

Malignant

Describing cancer cells that invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

Metastatic

Refers to cancer cells that have spread from the original site of the tumor to other parts of the body.

Cell proliferation

The process by which cells divide and multiply.

Dominant-acting gene

A gene where one mutated allele can cause the excess growth or proliferation of cells.

Recessive-acting gene

A gene where excessive cell proliferation occurs only in cells that are homozygous for the mutation.

Tumor formation

The development of a mass of tissue (tumor) as a result of uncontrolled cell division.

Excessive cell proliferation

An abnormally high rate of cell growth and division, leading to tumor development.