What is the oncogene associated with MEN2a and MEN2b thyroid cancer?

The oncogene associated with both MEN2a and MEN2b thyroid cancers is RET. This gene encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase that plays a crucial role in cell signaling pathways that regulate cell growth and differentiation. Mutations in the RET gene lead to the development of medullary thyroid carcinoma, which is a hallmark of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndromes.

In MEN2a, the RET mutations can also lead to pheochromocytoma and primary hyperparathyroidism, while in MEN2b, they are associated with a more aggressive form of medullary thyroid carcinoma, pheochromocytomas, and mucosal neuromas. The involvement of RET in these syndromes underscores its significance in the tumorigenesis of these specific cancer types.

Other oncogenes listed, such as KRAS, TP53, and APC, are involved in different cancer pathways or syndromes but do not have a direct association with MEN2a or MEN2b thyroid cancer. For instance, KRAS mutations are frequently seen in colorectal cancer and other tumors, while TP53 is a well-known tumor suppressor gene frequently mutated in various cancers. APC is also involved in familial adenomatous polyposis, primarily affecting