The Genetics of Cancer

work by Vogelstein and Kinzler

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

Bert Vogelstein and Kenneth Kinzler's work, detailed in The Genetics of Cancer, revolutionized our understanding of cancer by identifying the specific genetic changes that drive its development. They demonstrated that cancer arises from the accumulation of mutations in key genes, including oncogenes (which promote cell growth) and tumor suppressor genes (which inhibit it).1234

Their research, particularly on colon cancer, pinpointed specific mutated genes like K-ras, p53, DCC, and APC, showing that a sequential accumulation of genetic defects is necessary for a normal cell to become cancerous. This groundbreaking work not only illuminated the molecular basis of cancer but also paved the way for improved diagnostic tests and therapeutic strategies.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

6 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Bert Vogelstein
…in professional journals, Vogelstein cowrote The Genetics of Cancer (1997) with American oncologist Kenneth Kinzler, one of his former research assistants and later a full professor at Johns Hopkins. Vogelstein was awarded the 1997 William Beaumont Prize for his work on the genetics of cancer.
Read More
…in professional journals, Vogelstein cowrote The Genetics of Cancer (1997) with American oncologist Kenneth Kinzler, one of his former research assistants and later a full professor at Johns Hopkins. Vogelstein was awarded the 1997 William Beaumont Prize for his work on the genetics of cancer.
Read More