cell cycle

Question 1

what are the key points to the cell cycle and cancer initiation

Answer 1

Cell cycle has multiple checkpoints.
* Cyclins and CDKases play key roles throughout this process in addition
to ‘sentinel’ proteins such as p53.
* Mutations resulting in loss of function to these proteins can result in
uncontrolled cell growth.
* Mutations resulting in overactive or gain of function can result in
uncontrolled cell growth.
* Finally dysregulation of growth stimulation (via MAPK for eg) can
result in uncontrolled growth.

Question 2

describe the significance of the p53 gene

Answer 2

p53 is a tumor suppressor protein that plays a critical role in regulating the cell cycle. It monitors DNA damage and can halt cell cycle progression at the G1/S checkpoint, allowing for DNA repair. If the damage is irreparable, p53 triggers apoptosis, preventing the propagation of damaged cells. This function helps maintain genomic stability and prevents cancer development.

Question 3

what is the signifcance of cyclin and cdks in the cell cycle

Answer 3

Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) regulate the cell cycle by controlling progression through different phases. Cyclins activate CDKs by binding to them, triggering phosphorylation events that drive transitions between stages, such as from G1 to S phase or G2 to M phase. Proper coordination of cyclins and CDKs ensures accurate cell division and prevents unchecked proliferation, maintaining cellular function and genomic integrity.

Question 4

what is the signifcance of KRAS in the cell cycle

Answer 4

KRAS is a small GTPase that acts as a molecular switch in cell signaling. When activated, it triggers pathways like the MAPK and PI3K-AKT pathways, which promote cell growth, survival, and division. In the cell cycle, KRAS activation drives progression through the G1 phase, and its mutations are commonly associated with cancer, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and resistance to cell cycle regulation mechanisms.

Question 5

what is the signifcance of protacs in the cell cycle

Answer 5

PROTACs (Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras) are a class of molecules that target specific proteins for degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. In the context of the cell cycle, PROTACs can selectively degrade key regulators, such as cyclins or CDKs, to modulate cell cycle progression. By controlling the degradation of these proteins, PROTACs can potentially halt abnormal cell division, offering a novel approach for therapeutic intervention in cancer and other proliferative diseases.