Question

The overexpression of certain microRNAs, called oncomiRs, is associated with some types of cancer. What type of gene is the likely target of these oncomiRs in cancer cells?

Answer 1

OncomiRs in cancer cells likely target tumor-suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes, promoting uncontrolled cell proliferation by disrupting normal cell cycle regulations.

Step-by-step explanation:

The likely targets of oncomiRs in cancer cells are tumor-suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes. OncomiRs, which are a type of microRNA (miRNA), often contribute to cancer development by downregulating the expression of genes that normally inhibit cell proliferation or promote cell death. In the case of oncomiRs, their overexpression leads to the reduction in the levels of tumor-suppressor proteins, thereby disrupting the normal regulation of the cell cycle and promoting oncogenesis. Overexpressed miRNAs can also target proto-oncogenes, but instead of reducing their activity like tumor-suppressors, they may amplify or aberrantly regulate these genes contributing to cancer progression.