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Multiple Choice
How do cancer cells differ from noncancerous cells in terms of growth and division?
A
Cancer cells have a slower rate of division compared to noncancerous cells.
B
Cancer cells divide uncontrollably, while noncancerous cells have regulated growth.
C
Cancer cells require more oxygen than noncancerous cells for growth.
D
Cancer cells undergo apoptosis more frequently than noncancerous cells.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic characteristics of cell division: Normal cells follow a regulated cycle of growth and division, known as the cell cycle, which includes checkpoints to ensure proper division and function.
Recognize the key difference in cancer cells: Cancer cells bypass these regulatory checkpoints, leading to uncontrolled division and growth. This is a fundamental difference from noncancerous cells, which have regulated growth.
Consider the role of apoptosis: Apoptosis is a programmed cell death mechanism that helps eliminate damaged or unnecessary cells. Cancer cells often evade apoptosis, allowing them to survive longer than they should.
Examine the oxygen requirement: While cancer cells may have altered metabolism, the statement that they require more oxygen is not universally true. Cancer cells can adapt to low oxygen environments through processes like angiogenesis, where they stimulate the growth of new blood vessels.
Summarize the main differences: Cancer cells divide uncontrollably due to the loss of regulation in the cell cycle and often evade apoptosis, whereas noncancerous cells have controlled growth and division, maintaining homeostasis.