Question

Explain why many oncogenic viruses contain genes whose products interact with tumor-suppressor proteins.

Short answer

Answer: The interaction between oncogenic viruses and tumor-suppressor proteins is crucial for the development of cancer because it leads to the disruption of normal cell growth regulation. This disruption occurs when viral proteins bind to and inactivate tumor-suppressor proteins, causing uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of tumors, which can eventually develop into cancer.

Step-by-step solution

Define Oncogenic Viruses and Their Role in Cancer Formation

Oncogenic viruses are a group of viruses that have the potential to cause cancer in their host organisms. They achieve this potential by altering the regulation of normal cell growth and division, disruption of cellular functions, or damage to the DNA. This leads to uncontrolled cell growth, division, and the formation of tumors.

Define Tumor-Suppressor Proteins and Their Role in Cancer Prevention

Tumor-suppressor proteins are a group of cellular proteins that have the ability to prevent the formation of cancer by carefully regulating cell growth and cell division. They play a crucial role in maintaining the genetic stability and proper functioning of the cell. When these proteins are functioning correctly, they help maintain a healthy balance of cell growth and division, preventing the formation of tumors.

Explain the Importance of Oncogenic Viruses Interacting with Tumor-Suppressor Proteins

Many oncogenic viruses contain genes whose products interact with tumor-suppressor proteins. This interaction is essential for the oncogenic virus to cause cancer effectively. When the viral genes are expressed, their products (proteins) are also generated within the host cell. These viral proteins then interact with the tumor-suppressor proteins in the cell, often through a process called binding. This binding can directly or indirectly inactivate the tumor-suppressor proteins, which then lose their ability to regulate cell growth and division. The inactivation of tumor-suppressor proteins allows for uncontrolled cell growth, leading to the formation of tumors. In summary, the interaction between the products of oncogenic viruses and tumor-suppressor proteins is crucial for the development of cancer. This is because the disruption of normal cell growth regulation caused by the inactivation of tumor-suppressor proteins leads to the formation of tumors, which eventually may develop into cancer.