Question

shown in this image are hela cancer cells that are just completing cytokinesis. explain how the cell division of cancer cells like these is misregulated. identify genetic and other changes that might have caused these cells to escape normal cell cycle regulation.

Explanation:

Cancer cells divide uncontrollably. Genetic changes like mutations in proto - oncogenes (e.g., RAS) turning them into oncogenes, and mutations in tumor suppressor genes (e.g., p53). Other changes include loss of cell - cycle checkpoints, inability to undergo apoptosis, and continuous production of growth factors.

Answer:

Cancer cells have misregulated cell division. Genetic changes: Mutations in proto - oncogenes (e.g., RAS) to oncogenes (stimulate cell division), mutations in tumor suppressor genes (e.g., p53, which normally halts cell cycle or induces apoptosis). Other changes: Loss of cell - cycle checkpoints (e.g., G1/S, G2/M), inability to undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death), and autocrine production of growth factors (cells produce their own growth signals).