Ret gene

The RET gene provides instructions for making a protein called a receptor tyrosine kinase, which is involved in transmitting signals inside cells. These signals help regulate cell growth, development, and survival. When the RET gene mutates, it can cause the receptor to become overly active or dysfunctional, leading to uncontrolled cell growth. Such mutations are linked to certain types of cancers, including thyroid cancer and some nerve-related tumors. Understanding RET gene mutations is important for diagnosing these conditions and developing targeted treatments that can specifically block abnormal RET activity.