Chapter 19: Problem 14

Do proto-oncogenes only have gain-of-function mutations but never loss-of- function ones to become oncogenes? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified

Answer: Yes, proto-oncogenes generally undergo gain-of-function mutations to become oncogenes, contributing to uncontrolled cell division and cancer development. Loss-of-function mutations in proto-oncogenes are not typically associated with the formation of oncogenes, as they don't directly cause cancer-promoting effects.

Step by step solution

Define proto-oncogenes

Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that have the potential to become oncogenes if they undergo mutations. They play vital roles in cell growth, division, and differentiation in a normally regulated manner.

Define oncogenes

Oncogenes are mutated forms of proto-oncogenes, which can cause uncontrolled cell division leading to the formation of tumors or cancers.

Define gain-of-function mutation

Gain-of-function mutations are alterations in the gene's structure or expression that increase its activity or cause it to acquire a new and abnormal function.

Define loss-of-function mutation

Loss-of-function mutations are alterations in the gene's structure or expression that lead to the partial or complete loss of its function.

Discuss gain-of-function mutations in proto-oncogenes

To transform into oncogenes, proto-oncogenes typically undergo gain-of-function mutations. These mutations may either promote uncontrolled cell growth, prevent cell death, or create structures that bypass the normal cellular regulations, eventually leading to the development of cancer.

Do proto-oncogenes only have gain-of-function mutations?

Yes, proto-oncogenes generally undergo gain-of-function mutations to become oncogenes. These mutations result in an overactive version of the gene product, which contributes to uncontrolled cell division and cancer development.

Do proto-oncogenes have loss-of-function mutations?

Proto-oncogenes do not typically undergo loss-of-function mutations to become oncogenes. Loss-of-function mutations in proto-oncogenes could weaken their normal functions, but won't directly turn them into cancer-promoting oncogenes. In cancer development, loss-of-function mutations are more commonly associated with tumor suppressor genes – which are responsible for preventing uncontrolled cell division – turning them ineffective.

Conclusion

In conclusion, proto-oncogenes undergo gain-of-function mutations, but not loss-of-function mutations, to become oncogenes. Gain-of-function mutations result in overactivity of the gene product, contributing to uncontrolled cell division and cancer development. Loss-of-function mutations in proto-oncogenes are not typically associated with the formation of oncogenes, as they don't directly cause cancer-promoting effects.

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Do proto-oncogenes only have gain-of-function mutations but never loss-of- function ones to become oncogenes? Explain.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define proto-oncogenes

Define oncogenes

Define gain-of-function mutation

Define loss-of-function mutation

Discuss gain-of-function mutations in proto-oncogenes

Do proto-oncogenes only have gain-of-function mutations?

Do proto-oncogenes have loss-of-function mutations?

Conclusion

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