RET proto-oncogene

The RET proto-oncogene is a gene that normally helps control how cells grow and divide in the body, particularly in nerve and thyroid cells. When this gene becomes mutated or overactive, it can malfunction and contribute to the development of certain cancers, including thyroid cancer and tumors of the adrenal glands. Scientists study RET mutations because understanding how this gene goes wrong helps doctors develop better treatments and identify people at higher risk for these diseases.