How do cancer cells differ from normal cells?

• A. Cancer cells require fewer nutrients than normal cells to survive.
• B. Cancer cells can divide uncontrollably and evade normal cell cycle regulation.
• C. Cancer cells have a shorter lifespan and die more quickly than normal cells.
• D. Cancer cells are unable to undergo mutations.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key characteristics of normal cells: Normal cells follow strict regulatory mechanisms during the cell cycle, ensuring controlled growth, division, and apoptosis (programmed cell death). They respond to signals that regulate their behavior and maintain tissue homeostasis.
2. Learn how cancer cells differ: Cancer cells evade normal cell cycle regulation, allowing them to divide uncontrollably. They bypass checkpoints in the cell cycle, ignore signals for apoptosis, and often acquire mutations that promote their survival and proliferation.
3. Clarify the role of mutations: Cancer cells are not unable to undergo mutations; in fact, they often accumulate mutations in genes that regulate the cell cycle, such as tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes. These mutations contribute to their uncontrolled growth.
4. Address the misconception about nutrient requirements: Cancer cells typically require more nutrients than normal cells to sustain their rapid division and growth. They may alter their metabolism to meet these demands, such as by increasing glucose uptake (Warburg effect).
5. Correct the lifespan misconception: Cancer cells do not necessarily have a shorter lifespan. They can evade apoptosis and survive longer than normal cells, contributing to tumor formation and progression.