Oncogenes

The function of proto-oncogenes in cells is to dictate the specific cell type and how often it divides. So, a proto-oncogene that undergoes a mutation “may” become an oncogene. Just because a gene undergoes a mutation does not make it a malignancy. Normally, cells that undergo mutations are detected and destroyed. However, the undetected/discovered oncogene are believed to contribute to the possibility and probability of developing cancer. “Normal genes, or proto-oncogenes, are transformed into activated oncogenes in certain malignancies through the actions of viruses, irradiation, or excessive amounts of new genetic material through amplification or over expression of the involved gene” (Neville, 2009). Furthermore, there are several well identified behavioral factors that increase the rate of development of oncogenes. “It’s major risk factors in the western world include smoking and drinking alcohol, whereas in Asia, it is primarily caused by tobacco/arecanut/betel leaf chewing and/or human papilloma virus (HPV) infections” (Mishra, 2012). Proto-oncogenes can be induced to undergo a mutation and form an oncogene in a variety of ways.

“Before oral cancer appears, it undergoes several stages of oral premalignant lesions (OPLs) with varying types of dysplasia. Though these OPLs are very common precursors of OSCC, some oral cancers appear de novo from histologically normal oral epithelium. Oral cancer is very aggressive and commonly migrates invading distant organs.” (Mishra, 2012). Currently, the primary method of detecting oral cancers is via visual inspection/exam. However, it is essentially impossible to visually detect cellular changes that progress to the development of a malignancy. “Pain is a common symptom in oral cancer...

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...iagnostic techniques than visual inspection, so that we can treat oral cancers sooner. Even with the current treatment option(s) biopsy/radiation/chemotherapy, earlier and better detection will surely improve the prognosis for oral cancers. “The overall 5-year survival rate in OSCC has not significantly increased in the last few years. The overall and disease-free survival rates are 56% and 58%, respectively. The most important task is to establish an early diagnosis at the first stages of the disease,” (Jose Bagan, 2010). “Although the epidemiology of oral cancer is well-established, the prognosis and survival rates for oral cancer patients have not improved significantly over the past three decades, (S.C. Cheong, 2009). Lastly, a better understanding of oncogenes for oral cancer will have additional benefits for diagnosing/managing/treating other forms of cancer.