The myc oncogene in avian and mammalian carcinogenesis.

The myc oncogene has been the subject of intense research of late because of its involvement in viral and non-viral carcinogenesis in the avian, murine, feline and human systems. From data obtained in each system it appears that myc, which has been highly conserved through evolution, has a key role in the control of cell proliferation. However, the precise function of this gene remains obscure. This review attempts to summarize data obtained in the various systems in order to compare sometimes conflicting results.