SYNTHETIC LETHALITY AND

ONCOGENE ADDICTION
Oncogene
An oncogene is a gene
whose modification
(«activation») can induce
malignant
transformation.

For example, genes that

control cellular
proliferation.

Not ALL modifications

are able to activate the
oncogene.
SOURCE
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Tumor Suppressor

Genes whose function is

to protect against
transformation.

For example, genes that

trigger apoptosis (a form
of cell death) in
dysfunctional cells.

Typically inactivated
during cancer
progression.

SOURCE
Wikimedia, Wasserman Lab (CC 4.0)
 Conclusion

Oncogene addiction

Cancer cells depend on the excessive activation of

certain genes/proteins. Inhibiting these genes can stop
cancer cells

Synthetic lethality

Cancer cells have to inactivate some protective

mechanisms that suppress transformation. This makes
them more vulnerable to some exposures.