[Campbell Biology P.439] According to Figure 18.24, what is the primary consequence of a mut... | Practice Question

According to Figure 18.24, what is the primary consequence of a mutation that makes Ras protein hyperactive?

  • A: The cell cycle is inhibited, leading to programmed cell death.
  • B: Normal cell division is maintained, regardless of growth factor binding.
  • C: Increased cell division occurs due to continuous activation of cell cycle-stimulating genes.
  • D: The production of the cell cycle-stimulating protein is halted.

Explanation

Figure 18.24 b illustrates that a hyperactive Ras protein, resulting from a mutation, continuously issues signals that lead to the overexpression of cell cycle-stimulating proteins. This uninterrupted signaling bypasses normal regulatory mechanisms, causing increased cell division and potentially cancer.