Final answer:
Oncogenes are genes that promote cell division and survival, while tumor suppressor genes regulate and limit cell growth. Mutations in these genes can contribute to the development of cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Oncogenes are genes that have the potential to cause cancer. They are usually normal genes that control cell growth and division, but when mutated or activated inappropriately, they can trigger uncontrolled cell proliferation. On the other hand, tumor suppressor genes are genes that suppress cell growth and division. Mutations in tumor suppressor genes can lead to the loss of their inhibitory function and contribute to the development of cancer.
In carcinogenesis, oncogenes are involved in promoting cell division and survival, while tumor suppressor genes help regulate and limit cell growth. When mutations occur in oncogenes, they can become overactive and drive abnormal cell growth. Mutations in tumor suppressor genes can result in the loss of their ability to control cell growth, allowing cells to divide uncontrollably.
For example, the TP53 gene is a well-known tumor suppressor gene that helps prevent the development of cancer. Mutations in TP53 can impair its tumor-suppressing function, leading to the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells.