Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic of cancer cells, such as HeLa cells, that helps them evade cell death?
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11. Cell Division
Cancer
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Which of the following is a characteristic unique to cancer cells, but not normal cells?
A
Maintain normal tissue architecture
B
Ability to proliferate indefinitely (immortality)
C
Undergo apoptosis in response to DNA damage
D
Regulated cell division in response to growth signals
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the context: Cancer cells exhibit unique characteristics that differentiate them from normal cells. These characteristics are often referred to as the 'hallmarks of cancer.' One of these hallmarks is the ability to proliferate indefinitely, also known as cellular immortality.
Review the options provided: Analyze each option to determine whether it describes a property of normal cells or cancer cells. For example, maintaining normal tissue architecture and undergoing apoptosis in response to DNA damage are typical of normal cells, not cancer cells.
Focus on the hallmark of immortality: Cancer cells bypass the normal cellular mechanisms that limit the number of times a cell can divide. This is achieved through the activation of telomerase, an enzyme that prevents the shortening of telomeres during cell division, allowing the cells to divide indefinitely.
Eliminate incorrect options: 'Maintain normal tissue architecture' and 'Regulated cell division in response to growth signals' are characteristics of normal cells. 'Undergo apoptosis in response to DNA damage' is also a feature of normal cells, as it prevents the propagation of damaged DNA.
Conclude with the correct answer: The ability to proliferate indefinitely (immortality) is a unique characteristic of cancer cells, distinguishing them from normal cells.
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