Final answer:
Without survival factors and the Bcl2 gene, cells would likely initiate apoptosis. Bcl2 proteins regulate cell death, and their absence can lead to unregulated cell division and senescence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Without survival factors and the Bcl2 gene, cells would likely undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis) without being told to. The Bcl2 gene encodes for proteins that help regulate cell death by either promoting survival or through triggering apoptosis. When cells lack survival factors or when the Bcl2 gene is absent, they are prone to apoptosis. This is because Bcl2 proteins, like Bak and Bax, are involved in maintaining mitochondrial membrane integrity and preventing the release of cytochrome C, which initiates the cascade for apoptosis. If a cell begins unregulated cell division, this could lead to tumors and cancers as a result of bypassing important cell cycle checkpoints such as those mediated by tumor suppressor genes like p53. Lastly, cells may also enter an irreversible state of dormancy known as senescence.