What are normal genes called that can cause cancer if mutated?

Normal genes that have the potential to cause cancer when mutated are known as proto-oncogenes. These genes play vital roles in regulating cell division, growth, and differentiation. When they undergo mutations, they can become overactive or excessively expressed, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation, which is a hallmark of cancer.

Proto-oncogenes can be converted into oncogenes, which are the mutated or overexpressed counterparts that contribute to oncogenesis. They are normally involved in promoting cell growth and are critical for normal cellular function, but once altered, they can drive the process of cancer development.

In contrast, oncogenes refer specifically to these mutated forms that actively promote tumorigenesis. The other terms, such as mutagenic genes and carcinogenic genes, do not specifically refer to the normal versions that can become cancerous upon mutation, making them less applicable in this context. Thus, understanding the role of proto-oncogenes is essential in studying cancer biology and therapeutics.