As part of a cancer research project, you have discovered a gene that is mutated in many metastatic tumors. After determining the DNA sequence of this gene, you compare the sequence with those of other genes in the human genome sequence database. Your gene appears to code for an amino acid sequence that resembles sequences found in some serine proteases. Conjecture how your new gene might contribute to the development of highly invasive cancers.
Table of contents
- 1. Introduction to Genetics51m
- 2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
- 3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
- 4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
- 5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
- 6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
- 7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
- 8. DNA Replication1h 10m
- 9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
- 10. Transcription1h 0m
- 11. Translation58m
- 12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
- 13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
- 14. Genetic Control of Development44m
- 15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
- 16. Transposable Elements47m
- 17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
- 18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- 19. Cancer Genetics29m
- 20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
- 21. Population Genetics50m
- 22. Evolutionary Genetics29m
19. Cancer Genetics
Overview of Cancer
Struggling with Genetics?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which of the following best predicts how mutations can lead to the development of cancer?
A
Mutations increase the efficiency of DNA repair mechanisms, reducing the risk of cancer.
B
Mutations only affect non-coding regions of DNA and do not influence cell growth.
C
Mutations always cause cells to die, preventing cancer from developing.
D
Mutations in proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes disrupt normal cell cycle regulation, leading to uncontrolled cell division.

1
Understand that cancer development is often linked to changes in the regulation of the cell cycle, which controls cell growth and division.
Recognize that mutations in specific genes, such as proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, can disrupt this regulation.
Know that proto-oncogenes normally promote cell division, but when mutated, they can become oncogenes that cause excessive cell proliferation.
Understand that tumor suppressor genes normally inhibit cell division or promote cell death, and mutations can inactivate these genes, removing growth controls.
Conclude that mutations affecting these genes lead to uncontrolled cell division, which is a hallmark of cancer development.
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