Tumor suppressor genes are also referred to as:

Tumor suppressor genes play a pivotal role in regulating cell growth and ensuring that cells do not proliferate uncontrollably, which can lead to the development of cancer. They function by encoding proteins that help control the cell cycle, promote DNA repair, and initiate apoptosis (programmed cell death) in response to cellular damage.

Referring to tumor suppressor genes as anti-oncogenes is appropriate because they act as a counterbalance to oncogenes, which are genes that promote uncontrolled cell division and a cancerous state when mutated or overexpressed. Thus, the term anti-oncogenes aptly conveys the protective function of tumor suppressor genes in preventing tumor formation by inhibiting cell proliferation and facilitating orderly cell death when necessary.

This distinction between anti-oncogenes (tumor suppressor genes) and oncogenes is fundamental in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development. By regulating critical processes in the cell cycle and maintaining genomic integrity, these genes act as natural obstacles to tumor growth, hence the term anti-oncogenes is appropriately applied to them.