An oncogene is
A) a viral gene with no relation to the host cell's genes.
B) a mutated form of a proto-oncogene.
C) a bacterial gene that causes cancer in the host.
D) always seen in human cancer cells.
E) a gene that turns off cellular reproduction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oncogenes are genes that have the potential to cause cancer. Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that regulate cell growth and division, but when mutated they can become oncogenes and promote uncontrolled cell growth, leading to cancer. Therefore, choice B, a mutated form of a proto-oncogene, is the correct answer.

An Oncogene Is