Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 40m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 37m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 7m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood1h 22m
18. The Heart1h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance Coming soon
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity Coming soon

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Cancer

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Cancer

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1:36 minutes

Problem 7b

Textbook Question

All your cells contain proto-oncogenes, which can change into cancer-causing oncogenes. Why do cells possess such potential time bombs?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that proto-oncogenes are normal genes that play a crucial role in cell growth and division.

Recognize that proto-oncogenes are essential for normal cellular functions, such as promoting cell cycle progression and preventing apoptosis (programmed cell death).

Acknowledge that mutations or alterations in proto-oncogenes can lead to their conversion into oncogenes, which can cause uncontrolled cell division and potentially lead to cancer.

Consider that the presence of proto-oncogenes is a trade-off, as they are necessary for normal cellular processes but can become harmful if mutated.

Reflect on the importance of regulatory mechanisms in the cell that help prevent the conversion of proto-oncogenes into oncogenes, such as DNA repair systems and tumor suppressor genes.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Proto-oncogenes

Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that play a crucial role in cell growth and division. They encode proteins that help regulate cell proliferation and differentiation. When mutated or abnormally expressed, these genes can become oncogenes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. Understanding proto-oncogenes is essential for grasping how cancer can develop from normal cellular processes.

Oncogenes

Oncogenes are mutated forms of proto-oncogenes that promote cancerous growth. They can result from various factors, including genetic mutations, environmental influences, or viral infections. Oncogenes drive the transformation of normal cells into cancer cells by overriding the regulatory mechanisms that control cell division, making their study vital in cancer research and treatment strategies.

Cellular Regulation

Cellular regulation refers to the complex mechanisms that control cell functions, including growth, division, and apoptosis (programmed cell death). This regulation is crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis and preventing diseases like cancer. The balance between proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes is a key aspect of cellular regulation, as disruptions can lead to the activation of oncogenes and the development of tumors.

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Textbook Question

Describe three ways that cancer cells differ from normal cells.