The ras gene encodes a protein that promotes cell division in response to growth factors.A gain-of-function point mutation in this gene would
A) cause thymine to form covalent bonds with adjacent bases.
B) not cause a change in the amino acid sequence of the protein.
C) cause the protein to stop translation.
D) increase the probability that affected cells would become cancerous.
E) result in nondisjunction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A gain-of-function point mutation in the ras gene would lead to an increase in the activity of the downstream signaling pathway, resulting in uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation, which is characteristic of cancer cells. The other choices are not relevant to the function of the ras gene or the consequences of a gain-of-function mutation.

The Ras Gene Encodes a Protein That Promotes Cell Division