Question

MPF normally begins to break down and stops functioning during anaphase. Suggest the possible consequences of MPF not breaking down (3 marks)

Answer 1

When MPF does not break down during anaphase, it can lead to chromosomal abnormalities, disrupted cell cycle progression, and tumor growth.

Step-by-step explanation:

When MPF does not break down and continues to function during anaphase, there can be several consequences:

1. Chromosomal abnormalities: Improper breakdown of MPF can lead to errors in chromosome separation, resulting in aneuploidy or non-disjunction.
2. This can lead to genetic disorders or developmental abnormalities.
3. Cell cycle progression: MPF plays a key role in regulating the cell cycle.
4. If it does not break down, it can cause the cell cycle to progress without proper checkpoints, leading to uncontrolled cell division and potentially the development of cancer.
5. Tumor growth: MPF breakdown is also responsible for initiating the breakdown of cyclin in the cell.
6. If MPF does not break down, cyclin levels remain high, promoting continued cell division and potentially tumor growth