Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Human Health and Disease

Question:

The genes which can lead to the oncogenic transformation of the cells in which these are present, are called :

Options:

oncogenes

proto-oncogenes

cellular oncogenes

Both (b) and (c)

Correct Answer:

Both (b) and (c)

Explanation:

a- oncogenes

b-proto-oncogenes 

c-cellular oncogenes

d-Both (b) and (c)

The correct answer is (d) Both (b) and (c) - proto-oncogenes and cellular oncogenes.

Proto-oncogenes are normal genes present in cells that have the potential to become oncogenes. These genes play essential roles in regulating cell growth, division, and differentiation. However, certain changes or mutations in proto-oncogenes can lead to their transformation into oncogenes, which can contribute to the development of cancer.

When a proto-oncogene undergoes a mutation or alteration, it can acquire abnormal functions or become overactive, promoting uncontrolled cell growth and division. These oncogenes can disrupt the normal balance of cell growth and can lead to the development of tumors. Examples of proto-oncogenes that can transform into oncogenes include the ras, myc, and HER2 genes.

Cellular oncogenes, on the other hand, are the altered forms of proto-oncogenes that have undergone mutations and become oncogenic. These mutated genes have the ability to drive abnormal cell growth and division, leading to the development of cancer. The term "cellular" distinguishes these oncogenes from viral oncogenes, which are genes derived from cancer-causing viruses.

The distinction between proto-oncogenes and cellular oncogenes lies in their functional state. Proto-oncogenes are normal genes with the potential to become oncogenic through mutations, while cellular oncogenes have undergone specific alterations and acquired oncogenic properties.

Overall, both proto-oncogenes and cellular oncogenes are critical in understanding the development of cancer. The mutations and dysregulation of these genes can contribute to the uncontrolled cell growth and division observed in cancer cells.