AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -An oncogene is a mutated gene that has the potential to cause cancer. Before an oncogene becomes mutated, it is called a proto-oncogene, and it plays a role in regulating normal cell division.

Detailed explanation-2: -Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that, when mutated, become oncogenes-genes that cause a cell to become cancerous.

Detailed explanation-3: -An oncogene is like a gas pedal that is stuck down, which causes the cell to divide out of control. Oncogenes can be turned on (activated) in cells in different ways. For example: Gene variants/mutations: Some people have differences in the ‘code’ of their genes that can cause an oncogene to be turned on all the time.

Detailed explanation-4: -A mutated (changed) form of a type of gene called a proto-oncogene, which is involved in normal cell growth and division. When a proto-oncogene is changed so that too many copies are made or it becomes more active than normal, it is called an oncogene.

Detailed explanation-5: -Oncogenes, however, typically exhibit increased production of these proteins, thus leading to increased cell division, decreased cell differentiation, and inhibition of cell death; taken together, these phenotypes define cancer cells.