Question

Inactive cellular oncogenes have been identified in cancer cells.

• A. True
• B. False

Answer 1

The correct option is A True

Mammalian cells possess a set of normal cellular genes- Proto-oncogenes(Cellular oncogenes) and tumor suppressor gene. They

are not cancer genes. The term ”proto-oncogenes” is used to denote their ability to require an oncogenic potential.

In the normal cell, they have functions in cell growth and differentiation. They

• code for phosphorylating proteins
• influence DNA replication
• control mRNA production
• bind GTP

They have the potential to become cancer cells, it may occur because of

• mutations (point mutations of proto-oncogenes

or their regulatory genes caused by chemicals,

radiation, viruses)

• amplifications

• translocations (proto-oncogene is placed in

proximity to a strong promoter)

So, this statement is true.