Exam 16: The Genetics of Cancer

Describe the major cellular and molecular events that mark the entry of mitosis from G2.

Describe two classes of proteins known to be involved in the regulation of the cell cycle.

Provide a simple definition of a carcinogen.

As more is learned about cancer,it has become clear that cancer,with few exceptions,has no genetic basis.

A protein that functions as a cell-cycle regulator causes cell death (apoptosis)under high sunlight exposure.Which symbol given to this protein?

(a)What is a tumor-suppressor gene? (b)What are oncogenes? (c)What is the normal (nonmutant)cellular version of an oncogene called?

A retrovirus uses reverse transcriptase to make a DNA copy of RNA.

Which protein appears to regulate the entry of cells into an S phase? This protein is also known as the "guardian of the genome."

Which protein combines with cyclins to exert local control of the cell cycle?

Name two classes of proteins that combine to directly control progression through the cell cycle.

Any agent that causes damage to DNA is a potential carcinogen.

In what way might a virus contribute to cancer formation?

Name three human cancers with a genetic predisposition.What appears to be the genetic cause of each?

List three general categories of genetic changes that lead to the formation of oncogenes.

Describe three genetic mechanisms whereby proto-oncogenes can become overexpressed.

Describe the molecular nature of mutation,as related to cancer,in a ras gene.

Which three stages or transitions in the cell cycle seem to serve as points of control (checkpoints)?

The gene p53 is called the "guardian of the genome" because it corrects mutations in the spindle apparatus before nondisjunction can occur.

Chronic myelogenous leukemia appears to be associated with a chromosomal rearrangement.How would a chromosomal rearrangement be responsible for this disease?

What is the name of a normal gene that serves to promote cellular division?