Final answer:
DNA damage or deregulated growth signals can lead to unchecked cell growth and the development of cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
When DNA is damaged or there is a deregulated growth signal, it can lead to unchecked cell growth and the development of cancer.
DNA damage can occur due to replication errors or exposure to factors like radiation or chemicals. This can result in mutations in genes, including those that regulate cell growth.
Additionally, deregulated growth signals can cause cells to become self-sufficient in growth signals and insensitive to anti-growth signals, leading to uncontrolled cell growth.