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Multiple Choice
Which of the following defects could lead to uncontrolled cell growth in cancer?
A
Loss of tumor suppressor gene function
B
Increased apoptosis
C
Reduced angiogenesis
D
Enhanced DNA repair mechanisms
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of tumor suppressor genes: These genes help regulate cell growth by inhibiting cell division or promoting apoptosis. Loss of function in these genes can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, a hallmark of cancer.
Consider the process of apoptosis: Apoptosis is programmed cell death, which helps eliminate damaged or unnecessary cells. Increased apoptosis would typically prevent cancer by removing potentially harmful cells, not promote it.
Evaluate angiogenesis: Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels. Reduced angiogenesis would limit the supply of nutrients and oxygen to tumors, potentially inhibiting cancer growth rather than promoting it.
Assess DNA repair mechanisms: Enhanced DNA repair mechanisms would correct mutations that could lead to cancer. Therefore, increased DNA repair would generally protect against cancer rather than contribute to it.
Identify the defect that leads to uncontrolled cell growth: Loss of tumor suppressor gene function is the defect that directly contributes to uncontrolled cell growth, as it removes the regulatory mechanisms that prevent excessive cell division.