Which of these factors contributes to the genomic instability that facilitates cancer development?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Loss-of-function mutations in DNA-repair genes
Caretaker genes maintain genomic integrity by DNA repair; when they are inactivated, mutations accumulate unchecked, increasing the risk of oncogene activation or tumor suppressor loss — fostering neoplasia.
Keep practicing
More Neoplasia and Cancer Biology questions
- In histopathological grading of tumors, what does a high-grade tumor generally imply compared to a low-grade tumor?
- Which of the following is most likely to be a paraneoplastic syndrome rather than a direct effect of tumor mass or metastasis?
- What is the defining feature that distinguishes a neoplasm from normal hyperplasia or metaplasia?
- Which of the following best differentiates benign tumors from malignant neoplasms on gross and microscopic pathology?
- Which statement about the genetic basis of cancer is most accurate?
- An activating point mutation in a proto-oncogene converts it into an oncogene. What is the usual effect of this change?