Question

In Burkitt lymphoma patients, despite translocation, the oncogene c-MYC remains intact in its new location. Yet c-MYC is believed to be responsible for the lymphoma because:

a. the c-MYC DNA sequence undergoes hypermethylation.
b. the c-MYC DNA sequence is intact but is inverted in the new position.
c. the c-MYC gene is released from inhibition by miRNAs.
d. the c-MYC gene is placed under the control of B-cell-specific gene regulatory sequences.

Answer 1

The c-MYC oncogene contributes to Burkitt lymphoma because it is relocated under the control of B-cell-specific gene regulatory sequences, leading to its overexpression and uncontrolled cell growth.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Burkitt lymphoma patients, despite translocation, the oncogene c-MYC remains intact in its new location. The c-MYC is believed to be responsible for the lymphoma because the c-MYC gene is placed under the control of B-cell-specific gene regulatory sequences. Normally, proto-oncogenes such as c-MYC are positive cell-cycle regulators, but when they are overexpressed due to translocation, they can become oncogenes and contribute to cancer. The c-MYC oncogene overexpression can lead to uncontrolled B cell growth, resulting in high B-cell numbers and tumor formation, which in the context of Burkitt lymphoma can manifest as large tumors in areas such as the jaw or mouth, impacting the patient's ability to eat.