Tumor Suppressor Proteins Can Assist in Slowing Down the Cell

Multiple Choice

Tumor suppressor proteins can assist in slowing down the cell cycle under appropriate conditions. In humans, the TP53 gene encodes a tumor suppressor called p53. Most mutations in the TP53 gene result in a mutant form of p53 that can no longer function to slow down the cell cycle, which can lead to a cell becoming cancerous. However, some mutant forms of p53 actually possess the ability to increase a cell's resistance to anticancer treatments. Which of the following BEST describes this type of mutation?

A) loss-of-function mutation
B) gain-of-function mutation
C) reverse mutation
D) suppressor mutation
E) neutral mutation