ALK gene

The ALK gene provides instructions for making a protein involved in cell growth and development. Under normal circumstances, it helps regulate how cells grow and divide. However, in some cancers, the ALK gene can be abnormally altered, leading to the production of a malfunctioning ALK protein that encourages uncontrolled cell growth. Detecting ALK gene changes is important because it can guide targeted treatments that specifically block the abnormal protein, offering more effective options for patients with certain cancers like lung cancer.