Multiple Choice
Which best describes cancer cells?
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11. Cell Division
Cancer
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Which of the following statements correctly describes a characteristic of tumor-suppressor genes?
A
They are only active in cancerous cells.
B
They cause mutations that directly lead to oncogene activation.
C
They promote the cell cycle and stimulate cell proliferation.
D
They encode proteins that inhibit cell division and prevent uncontrolled cell growth.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of tumor-suppressor genes: Tumor-suppressor genes are responsible for encoding proteins that regulate cell division and prevent uncontrolled cell growth. Their primary function is to act as a safeguard against cancer development.
Clarify the incorrect options: Analyze why the other statements are incorrect. For example, tumor-suppressor genes are not only active in cancerous cells; they function in normal cells to maintain proper cell cycle control. They do not directly cause mutations leading to oncogene activation, nor do they promote the cell cycle or stimulate cell proliferation.
Focus on the correct statement: Tumor-suppressor genes encode proteins that inhibit cell division, ensuring that cells do not divide uncontrollably. This is a key characteristic that helps prevent tumor formation.
Relate to examples: Common examples of tumor-suppressor genes include TP53 (which encodes the p53 protein) and RB1 (which encodes the retinoblastoma protein). These proteins play critical roles in halting the cell cycle when DNA damage is detected or when conditions are unfavorable for cell division.
Summarize the importance: Tumor-suppressor genes are essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and preventing cancer. When these genes are mutated or inactivated, cells may divide uncontrollably, leading to tumor formation.
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