The oncogene database of the ZKBS

Oncogenes are genes that activate cell proliferation through mutations of cellular proto-oncogenes, thus actively supporting the development and progression of neoplasms. Tumor suppressor genes, on the other hand, are cellular genes whose products control the cell cycle or trigger apoptosis, thus preventing uncontrolled cell division and tumorigenesis.

To counteract potential risks to laboratory personnel when handling these genes during genetic engineering work, the Central Commission for Biological Safety (ZKBS) recommended additional precautionary measures in a 2016 statement ( ref. 6790-10-01 ). To ensure that it is possible to specifically classify the genetic engineering work for which these measures must be taken, the ZKBS maintains a database of genes and nucleic acids that have already been assessed by the ZKBS or the ZKBS office for possible oncogenic potential. It is important that only the relevant properties of the genes are considered for the assessment, not the risk potential of the corresponding gene products with regard to immunomodulatory, neurodegenerative, or toxic effects.

The ZKBS oncogene database is continuously updated and supplemented. Please note that due to changes in classification criteria, entries created before January 1, 2017, with the classification "oncogene" and/or "tumor suppressor" may no longer be up-to-date. In these cases, the ZKBS office should be contacted regarding classification. To verify the oncogenic potential of a gene, databases such as OMIM ( Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man ) or Entrez Gene of NCBI used. Upon inclusion in the ZKBS oncogene database, the date of entry, the name of the gene/nucleic acid, its function, and the assessment of its oncogenic potential are recorded. An example of an oncogene is cysteine ​​protease USP4. For designated tumor suppressor genes, the database refers to the oncogenic potential of specific short hairpin Ribonucleic acids (shRNA) have been pointed out, which can inactivate the cell proliferation-inhibiting function of the corresponding target genes in experiments (e.g. shRNA directed against Salvador Protein 1 (SAV1)).

The ZKBS oncogene database can here can be retrieved.