Question

P53 is a transcription factor whose function is lost in many cancers. researchers showed that p53 activates expression of a group of mirnas, which in turn inhibit the cell cycle. would the genes silenced by these mirnas be tumor-suppressor genes or proto-oncogenes?

O proto-oncogenes
O tumor-suppressor
O genes

Answer 1

The genes silenced by these miRNAs would be proto-oncogenes, as p53 activates miRNAs to prevent uncontrolled cell growth by inhibiting genes promoting cell division, which are characteristics of proto-oncogenes. Therefore correct option is A

Step-by-step explanation:

The genes silenced by these miRNAs activated by p53 would be proto-oncogenes. p53 is a well-studied tumor suppressor gene that functions as a transcription factor to prevent uncontrolled cell growth. When p53 activates miRNAs that inhibit the cell cycle, these miRNAs are acting against genes that promote cell division and growth, which are characteristics of proto-oncogenes. The correct function of p53 and its associated miRNAs is crucial for preventing cancer, as they help to put up a roadblock to cell cycle progression, ensuring that cells do not divide uncontrollably. When p53 is mutated and loses its function, the normal regulatory pathways are disrupted, potentially leading to cancer progression.