Question

P53 can trigger apoptosis if certain cell-cycle events fail. How does this regulatory outcome benefit a multicellular organism?

a) By promoting uncontrolled cell division
b) By preventing DNA repair
c) By eliminating damaged or abnormal cells
d) By inducing G1 arrest

Answer 1

The p53 protein triggers apoptosis if cell-cycle events fail, eliminating damaged or abnormal cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

When cellular damage occurs, the p53 protein acts as a regulatory protein that monitors DNA. If damage is detected, p53 triggers repair mechanisms. If the repairs are unsuccessful, p53 signals apoptosis, or programmed cell death. This regulatory outcome benefits a multicellular organism by eliminating damaged or abnormal cells, preventing the spread of DNA damage and potential cancer development.