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amplification

genetics
Also known as: gene amplification

Quick Summary

Gene amplification is a chromosomal abnormality where the number of copies of a proto-oncogene increases, leading to excessive protein production. This can contribute to cancer development. For instance, amplification of the N-MYC proto-oncogene is found in about 40% of neuroblastoma cases, with a higher copy number correlating to more advanced disease. Similarly, amplification of the c-ERBB2 (HER2) proto-oncogene occurs in some breast cancers.1

While not directly related to gene amplification in cancer, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a technique that makes many copies of a specific DNA segment, crucial for various biological experiments and diagnostics.2

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