Targeting growth control genes
A cell continuously receives messages, both from its own genes and from other cells. Some messages tell it to grow, and some tell it to stop and rest - like the accelerator and brake pedals in a car. Mutations to some genes cause uncontrolled growth by jamming down the accelerator. These genes are known as oncogenes. Mutations in other genes, cause the brakes to fail, with the same effect. These genes are called tumour suppressor genes. Some new cancer therapies are targeting these cell growth control genes.
