Journal of Cancer Research and Immuno-Oncology
Open Access

Cancer Genes Review Articles

The most commonly mutated gene in people with cancer is p53 or TP53. More than 50% of cancers involve a missing or damaged p53 gene. Most p53 gene mutations are acquired. Germline p53 mutations are rare, but patients who carry them are at a higher risk of developing many different types of cancer. 

Acquired mutations. These are the most common cause of cancer. ... Germline mutations. These are less common. ... Tumor suppressor genes. These are protective genes. ... Oncogenes. These turn a healthy cell into a cancerous cell. ... DNA repair genes. These fix mistakes made when DNA is copied.