Which gene is known as a tumor suppressor and can turn into an oncogene if mutated?

The TP53 gene is crucial for regulating the cell cycle and maintaining genomic stability. It encodes the p53 protein, which typically acts as a tumor suppressor by preventing the proliferation of cells that have sustained DNA damage, thereby playing a central role in preventing tumor formation.

When TP53 is mutated, the normal function of this protein can be lost or altered. In some scenarios, instead of simply allowing unchecked cell proliferation, certain mutations in TP53 can lead to a gain of function, wherein the mutated protein contributes to oncogenic processes. This dual nature makes TP53 particularly interesting in cancer biology, as it highlights the complexity of gene functions where a tumor suppressor can contribute to oncogenic activity under specific circumstances.

In contrast, BRCA1 is primarily known for its role in DNA repair, while HER2 is an oncogene that, when overexpressed or amplified, can lead to certain types of breast cancer. FAS is involved in apoptosis but is not typically categorized in the same way as TP53 concerning mutation leading to oncogenic properties. Therefore, the identification of TP53 as a tumor suppressor that can be transformed into an oncogene through specific mutations is supported by extensive research in the field of cancer genetics.