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Ch. 11 - Gene Mutation, DNA Repair, and Homologous Recombination
Chapter 11, Problem 1

Identify the normal functions of the following genes whose mutations are associated with the development of cancer.

c-MYC (Burkitt lymphoma)

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1
Understand that c-MYC is a proto-oncogene, which means it normally plays a role in cell growth and division.
Recognize that proto-oncogenes like c-MYC are crucial for normal cellular functions, such as promoting cell cycle progression and proliferation.
Learn that in Burkitt lymphoma, a chromosomal translocation often occurs, leading to the overexpression of the c-MYC gene.
This overexpression results in uncontrolled cell proliferation, contributing to the development of cancer.
Remember that the normal function of c-MYC is to regulate genes involved in cell growth, metabolism, and apoptosis, maintaining a balance in cell proliferation.

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Key Concepts

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

c-MYC Gene Function

The c-MYC gene is a proto-oncogene that encodes a transcription factor involved in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and cellular growth. It plays a crucial role in promoting cell proliferation and is essential for normal cellular functions. When mutated or overexpressed, c-MYC can lead to uncontrolled cell division, contributing to cancer development, such as in Burkitt lymphoma.
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Proto-oncogenes and Oncogenes

Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that, when mutated or abnormally expressed, can become oncogenes, leading to cancer. They typically promote cell growth and division. Understanding the transition from proto-oncogene to oncogene is vital in cancer biology, as it highlights how genetic alterations can disrupt normal cellular processes and lead to malignancies.
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Burkitt Lymphoma

Burkitt lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by the rapid growth of tumors, often associated with the c-MYC gene's translocation. This cancer is linked to the overexpression of c-MYC due to chromosomal rearrangements, which leads to increased cell proliferation. Recognizing the relationship between c-MYC mutations and Burkitt lymphoma is essential for understanding the genetic basis of this cancer.
Related Practice
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Identify the normal functions of the following genes whose mutations are associated with the development of cancer.

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Identify the normal functions of the following genes whose mutations are associated with the development of cancer.

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