Carcinogenesis · Pathology

In the context of oncogenes, what is the effect of a 'point mutation' in the RAS gene?

  1. Decreased production of the RAS protein
  2. Inhibition of the GTPase activity, keeping RAS in a constant 'ON' state
  3. Increased degradation of the RAS protein in lysosomes
  4. Prevention of RAS binding to the cell membrane
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Correct answer: Inhibition of the GTPase activity, keeping RAS in a constant 'ON' state

RAS is a G-protein involved in signal transduction. Point mutations often interfere with GTP hydrolysis (GTPase activity), trapping the protein in its active, GTP-bound state and sending continuous growth signals to the nucleus.

Difficulty: Medium Question 4 of 20

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