Final answer:
Proto-oncogenes promote cell division at the right time, and when they mutate, they can lead to uncontrolled cell division. Tumor suppressor genes, on the other hand, prevent certain cells from dividing under specific conditions, such as DNA damage or high cellular density. The option (C) is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The genes that code for proteins promoting cell division at the appropriate time are called proto-oncogenes. When these genes mutate, they may become oncogenes, leading to the continuous promotion of cell division, regardless of whether it's the appropriate time or not.
In contrast, tumor suppressor genes work as the brake system by sending stop signals during the cell cycle to control cell division and maintain homeostasis. A primary function of tumor suppressor genes is to stop certain cells from dividing when conditions signify that division is not currently necessary or if the DNA is damaged. Therefore, option (C) is correct.
This question is not complete, Here I am attaching the complete question:
____code for proteins that promote cell division at the appropriate time; if these genes mutate, they promote cell division all the time, even when they are not supposed to.
A. Initiating cell division continuously
B. Suppressing cell division at all times
C. Promoting cell division at the appropriate time
D. Halting cell division permanently