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Multiple Choice
Which of the following features distinguish cancer cells from normal cells?
A
Normal apoptosis
B
Limited growth potential
C
Uncontrolled cell division
D
Stable genetic material
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of apoptosis: Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process that helps maintain healthy tissue by eliminating damaged or unnecessary cells. Cancer cells often evade apoptosis, allowing them to survive longer than normal cells.
Explore the concept of growth potential: Normal cells have limited growth potential, meaning they can only divide a certain number of times before they stop. Cancer cells, however, can divide indefinitely due to mutations that affect their growth regulation.
Examine cell division: Normal cells divide in a controlled manner, regulated by various checkpoints in the cell cycle. Cancer cells exhibit uncontrolled cell division, bypassing these regulatory mechanisms, leading to rapid and unchecked proliferation.
Consider genetic stability: Normal cells maintain stable genetic material, ensuring accurate DNA replication and repair. Cancer cells often have unstable genetic material, resulting in mutations that contribute to their malignant behavior.
Summarize the distinguishing features: Cancer cells are characterized by uncontrolled cell division, evasion of apoptosis, unlimited growth potential, and genetic instability, which collectively differentiate them from normal cells.