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Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules might change over time in a cancer cell?
A
Chlorophyll
B
DNA
C
Cellulose
D
Peptidoglycan
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: Cancer cells are characterized by uncontrolled growth and division, often due to changes in their genetic material (DNA). The question asks which molecule might change over time in a cancer cell.
Analyze the options provided: Chlorophyll, DNA, Cellulose, and Peptidoglycan. Consider the biological relevance of each molecule to cancer cells.
Evaluate 'Chlorophyll': Chlorophyll is a pigment found in plants and is involved in photosynthesis. Since cancer cells are animal cells, chlorophyll is not relevant and cannot change in this context.
Evaluate 'DNA': DNA is the genetic material in all cells, including cancer cells. Mutations or changes in DNA are a hallmark of cancer, as they can lead to the activation of oncogenes or the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes.
Evaluate 'Cellulose' and 'Peptidoglycan': Cellulose is a structural component of plant cell walls, and peptidoglycan is a component of bacterial cell walls. Neither is present in animal cells, so they cannot change in cancer cells. Therefore, the correct answer is DNA.