Transcription-factor mutations and disease

Many diseases are caused by mutations in transcription factors, which are proteins that regulate the transcription of DNA and expression of various genes. Mutations of factors that control gene expression in the pituitary gland may lead to abnormal growth or cause mental retardation. Mutations of thyroid and steroid hormone receptors can cause similar results. Some cancer-causing genes, known as oncogenes, produce transcription factors that stimulate excessive cell growth in cancers such as leukemia. Some antioncogenes prevent cancer by producing transcription factors that inhibit cell growth or interfere with oncogenes. Mutations in antioncogenes can lead to cancers in the bone, brain, and breast. Gene therapy and medications may be developed to treat these diseases by altering mutations or interacting with mutated transcription factors.