Epigenetic disruptions of which part of the human genome may be involved in many cancers?

• A. Introns
• B. Telomeres
• C. Promoter regions
• D. Exons

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of epigenetics: Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes can affect how genes are turned on or off and are often influenced by environmental factors.
2. Identify the role of promoter regions: Promoter regions are sequences of DNA that initiate transcription of a particular gene. They are crucial for regulating gene expression and can be affected by epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation and histone modification.
3. Explore how epigenetic changes in promoter regions can lead to cancer: When epigenetic modifications occur in promoter regions, they can lead to abnormal gene expression. For example, hypermethylation of promoter regions can silence tumor suppressor genes, while hypomethylation can activate oncogenes, both of which can contribute to cancer development.
4. Differentiate between introns, exons, and telomeres: Introns are non-coding regions within a gene, exons are coding regions that are expressed, and telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. While these parts of the genome can be involved in various cellular processes, promoter regions are specifically linked to gene expression regulation.
5. Conclude why promoter regions are the correct answer: Given their role in controlling gene expression, epigenetic disruptions in promoter regions are directly linked to the development of many cancers, making them a key focus in cancer research.