anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene

Definition of anaplastic lymphoma kinase gene
National Cancer Institute

anaplastic lymphoma kinase gene

(A-nuh-PLAS-tik lim-FOH-muh KY-nays jeen)
A gene that makes a protein that is involved in cell growth. Mutated (changed) forms of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase gene and protein have been found in some types of cancer, including neuroblastoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and anaplastic large cell lymphoma. These changes may increase the growth of cancer cells. Checking for changes in the anaplastic lymphoma kinase gene in tumor tissue may help to plan cancer treatment. Also called ALK gene.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms