A patient undergoes genomic tumour
profiling, which reveals complete loss of function of a key tumour suppressor
gene. The report notes that a single inherited pathogenic allele was present in
all normal tissue, whilst the second allele was functional. However, in the
tumour, the second allele was lost through a somatic deletion.

Based on this information, which
statement BEST explains the role of tumour suppressor genes (TSGs) in cancer
development?

Question

A patient undergoes genomic tumour
profiling, which reveals complete loss of function of a key tumour suppressor
gene. The report notes that a single inherited pathogenic allele was present in
all normal tissue, whilst the second allele was functional. However, in the
tumour, the second allele was lost through a somatic deletion.

Based on this information, which
statement BEST explains the role of tumour suppressor genes (TSGs) in cancer
development?

Accepted Answer

Loss
of both functional TSG alleles is typically required to drive tumour formation

Answer

TSGs are normally
inactive and become switched on only during tumour formation

Answer

TSGs prevent proto ‑ oncogenes
from converting into oncogenes

Answer

TSGs function solely
by regulating cell ‑ cycle checkpoints

Crowdly

A patient undergoes genomic tumour profiling, which reveals complete loss of f...

Want instant access to all verified answers on learning.monash.edu?