Oncogenes in gynecologic malignancy.

The identification and characterization of protooncogenes and tumor suppressor genes have provided important insights into the mechanisms of control of normal and abnormal cell growth and differentiation. As a consequence, significant advances have been made in our understanding of the initiation of gynecologic malignancies at the molecular level, particularly cervical cancer. In addition, the identification of specific genetic mutations of protooncogenes and tumor suppressor genes in some gynecologic malignancies appears to be of prognostic significance. The English language literature published during the past year concerning oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes in gynecologic malignancies is reviewed.