Cancer-Predisposing Gene

**Semantic type:** Gene or Genome

**Definition:** Mutated forms of genes which encode proteins that are essential for the control and maintenance of normal cellular processes. Inherited or somatic mutations in the wild-type form of these genes alters control of their expression, resulting in a change in control of the cell cycle. Individuals who harbor cancer-predisposing genes require fewer somatic mutations for transformation of a particular cell, thereby predisposing them to the development of cancer.

**Synonyms:** - Cancer Susceptibility Gene - Susceptibility Gene - predisposing mutation - susceptibility gene