Oncogenic proteins are proteins that can promote the development of cancer. They are often produced by genes known as oncogenes, which can become activated through mutations or other changes. When these proteins are overactive or expressed at high levels, they can disrupt normal cell functions, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation. These proteins can influence various cellular processes, such as cell division, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and DNA repair. Examples of oncogenic proteins include Ras, Myc, and HER2. Understanding these proteins is crucial for developing targeted cancer therapies that can inhibit their activity and slow down tumor progression.