Final answer:
No, having one normal copy and one mutated copy of the APC gene is not enough to cause colorectal cancer. Additional mutations in other genes are usually required for cancer to develop.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, having one normal copy and one mutated copy of the APC gene is not enough to cause colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is caused by a combination of factors, including genetic mutations. While mutations in the APC gene are commonly associated with colorectal cancer, additional mutations in other genes are usually required for cancer to develop.
For example, mutations in the TP53 gene, which encodes the p53 protein, are also frequently found in colorectal cancer cells. These mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell division and the accumulation of additional mutations, contributing to the development of cancer.