Cancer Genes
There are three main types of cancer genes.
Oncogenes normally function to accelerate cell division and growth. They can be mutated to act like stuck gas pedals. p53 interacts with some oncogenes.
Tumor suppressor genes, such as p53, normally act like brakes. Mutations can cause these brakes to fail.
DNA repair genes normally function to fix minor damage to DNA when it is replicated. When these genes are mutated, DNA damage can accumulate and lead to cancer.
A three-part comic: on top is foot pressing a gas pedal with a 100-pound weight on it. In the middle is a foot pressing a broken brake pedal. On the bottom is a car up on a lift and a mechanic holding a wrench.