Cell Cycle Regulation and Cancer

Front

What is a proto-oncogene?

Back

A proto-oncogene is a normal gene that can become an oncogene due to mutations or increased expression, leading to cancer.

Front

What is the role of the p53 protein in the cell cycle?

Back

The p53 protein is a tumor suppressor that prevents cells with damaged DNA from continuing through the cell cycle.

Front

What is the G1 checkpoint responsible for?

Back

The G1 checkpoint checks for cell size, nutrients, growth factors, and DNA damage before the cell enters the S phase.

Front

What happens during the S phase of the cell cycle?

Back

During the S phase, DNA is replicated, resulting in two identical sets of chromosomes.

Front

What is the G2 checkpoint?

Back

The G2 checkpoint ensures that all DNA is replicated correctly and checks for DNA damage before the cell enters mitosis.

Front

What is the M checkpoint?

Back

The M checkpoint ensures that all chromosomes are properly attached to the spindle fibers before the cell proceeds with mitosis.

Front

What is angiogenesis in the context of cancer?

Back

Angiogenesis is the process by which tumors stimulate the formation of new blood vessels to supply nutrients and oxygen for their growth.

Front

What distinguishes malignant tumors from benign tumors?

Back

Malignant tumors invade surrounding tissues and can spread to other parts of the body, while benign tumors do not.

Front

What is density-dependent inhibition?

Back

Density-dependent inhibition is a phenomenon where cell growth and division slows down as the population density increases.

Front

What is anchorage dependence?

Back

Anchorage dependence is the requirement for cells to be attached to a solid surface to grow and divide.