Cell Cycle, Cancer Genetics, and Tumor Biology: Key Concepts and Processes

What is the process of cell division called?

Mitosis

What is the purpose of the cell cycle?

To regulate cell division through stages involving proteins that promote, slow, or repair the division process.

What are proto-oncogenes?

Genes that normally regulate the cell cycle but can become oncogenes through mutations.

What is the difference between oncogenes and tumor suppressors?

Oncogenes push the cell cycle and prevent apoptosis, while tumor suppressors inhibit the cell cycle and promote apoptosis.

What is chromosomal instability?

A condition in cancer cells where chromosomes can break apart, leading to genetic mutations.

What is translocation in the context of cancer?

A genetic alteration where pieces of chromosomes switch places, which can activate oncogenes.

What happens to cancer cells regarding cell cycle checkpoints?

Cancer cells ignore checkpoints, allowing uncontrolled division.

What is dedifferentiation in cancer cells?

The process where cancer cells become less specialized and more like stem cells.

What is apoptosis?

The process of programmed cell death that cancer cells often evade.

What are HeLa cells?

A continuously reproducing human cell line derived from Henrietta Lacks' cervical cancer cells.

What is metastasis?

The process by which cancer cells leave the original tumor site and spread to other parts of the body.

What are carcinogens?

Substances that can cause cancer, including certain chemicals, radiation, and viruses.

What percentage of cancer cases are genetically inherited?

Approximately 20%

What is the role of the p53 gene?

A tumor suppressor gene that helps repair DNA mistakes and promote apoptosis.

What is the significance of Ras in cancer?

An example of an oncogene that can obtain gain-of-function mutations, pushing the cell cycle forward.

What are the main causes of cancer?

Environmental factors (majority) such as carcinogens, and genetic inheritance.

How do cancer cells affect normal organ function?

By growing too numerous and interfering with the normal functions of organs.

What is the relationship between mutations and cancer development?

Multiple mutations are required to develop cancer.

What happens to the ends of chromosomes in some cancer cells?

They maintain their telomeres, allowing the cells to become immortal.

What is the impact of cancer on tissue growth and repair?

Cancer leads to uncontrolled cell division, disrupting normal tissue growth and repair processes.