In familial carcinogenesis, what can be inferred about the genes in Mrs. Rodriguez's case?

In familial carcinogenesis, what can be inferred about the genes in Mrs. Rodriguez's case?

• A. They caused cancer through their multiplication
• B. They are only relevant if present
• C. They caused cancer by their absence
• D. They have no impact on cancer development

Answer: (C)

In familial carcinogenesis, certain genes are associated with an increased risk of developing cancer, particularly when they are mutated or absent. In Mrs. Rodriguez's case, the inference that "they caused cancer by their absence" implies that the lack of normal function of specific tumor suppressor genes may lead to uncontrolled cell growth and ultimately cancer. For instance, mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are involved in repairing DNA breaks, can predispose individuals to breast and ovarian cancers when these genes are absent or non-functional. In this context, the absence of their protective function is a significant factor contributing to the carcinogenic process. Thus, individuals with a hereditary predisposition may develop cancer not simply due to the presence of harmful mutations but due to the loss of protective genetic mechanisms. This understanding highlights the role of tumor suppressor genes in preventing cancer development and underscores the importance of genetic screening and counseling in families with a history of familial cancers.

In familial carcinogenesis, certain genes are associated with an increased risk of developing cancer, particularly when they are mutated or absent. In Mrs. Rodriguez's case, the inference that "they caused cancer by their absence" implies that the lack of normal function of specific tumor suppressor genes may lead to uncontrolled cell growth and ultimately cancer.

For instance, mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are involved in repairing DNA breaks, can predispose individuals to breast and ovarian cancers when these genes are absent or non-functional. In this context, the absence of their protective function is a significant factor contributing to the carcinogenic process. Thus, individuals with a hereditary predisposition may develop cancer not simply due to the presence of harmful mutations but due to the loss of protective genetic mechanisms.

This understanding highlights the role of tumor suppressor genes in preventing cancer development and underscores the importance of genetic screening and counseling in families with a history of familial cancers.