What Makes Cancer Cells Unique and Special?

What is a key characteristic of cancer cells?

A) Gain of merlin function

B) Loss of merlin function

Answer:

The unique characteristic of cancer cells is often due to a loss of merlin function.

Explanation:

In the context of various cancers, one key distinction of cancer cells is the loss of proper merlin function. Merlin, typically functioning as a tumor suppressor, helps regulate cell growth and division in healthy cells. However, mutations in the NF2 gene, which codes for merlin, can lead to a deficit in its tumor suppressor role. This loss of merlin function can contribute to the uncontrolled cell growth seen in cancer cells.

Therefore, the answer to the question regarding the gain of merlin function in cancer cells would be B) Loss of merlin function. Understanding the role of merlin in cancer can be crucial for diagnosis and treatment strategies in combating certain types of tumors.