Which of the following oncogenes, when activated, primarily functions as a growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase?
A. MYC
B. RAS
C. TP53
D. HER2 (ERBB2)
Explanation
Oncogene Classification by Function
Key Point
Oncogenes are classified based on their cellular function. Growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are a major class of proto-oncogenes that, when activated, drive proliferation through ligand-independent or ligand-dependent signaling.
HER2 (ERBB2) — Growth Factor Receptor
HER2 is a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase belonging to the EGFR family. When overexpressed or mutated:
Constitutively active or hypersensitive to growth factors
Drives proliferation in ~20% of breast cancers
Targetable by trastuzumab (Herceptin)
Comparison of Oncogene Types
Table
Oncogene
Class
Function
Example Cancer
HER2
Growth factor receptor
RTK signaling
Breast cancer
MYC
Transcription factor
Gene transcription
Burkitt lymphoma
RAS
Signal transduction
GTPase/relay protein
Pancreatic cancer
TP53
Tumor suppressor (not oncogene)
Cell cycle checkpoint
Li-Fraumeni syndrome
High-YieldNEET PG
HER2 and EGFR are the prototypical RTK oncogenes tested in NEET PG. Remember: RTKs have extracellular ligand-binding domains and intracellular kinase domains.
Clinical Pearl
HER2 testing (IHC or FISH) is mandatory in breast cancer diagnosis because HER2-positive tumors have different prognosis and respond to targeted therapy.
Practice similar questions
Sign up free to access AI-powered MCQ practice with detailed explanations and adaptive learning.
