Which of the following types of mutation would convert a proto- oncogene into an oncogene?
A) a mutation that creates an unstable proto- oncogene mRNA
B) a mutation that blocks transcription of the proto- oncogene
C) a mutation that greatly increases the amount of the proto- oncogene protein
D) a deletion of most of the proto- oncogene coding sequence

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Proto-oncogenes normally code for proteins that regulate cell growth and division. If a mutation occurs that greatly increases the amount of the proto-oncogene protein, it can disrupt the balance of cell growth regulation and lead to uncontrolled cell growth, converting the proto-oncogene into an oncogene. The other choices would not have the same effect. A mutation that creates an unstable mRNA may lead to decreased protein production or no protein production at all. Blocking transcription altogether would also lead to no protein production. A deletion of most of the coding sequence would likely result in a non-functional or significantly altered protein, but not necessarily an oncogenic one.

Which of the Following Types of Mutation Would Convert a Proto-