Cancer cell internal structures, metabolism, and plasma membranes (with their as

Question

Cancer cell internal structures, metabolism, and plasma membranes (with their associated proteins) differ from healthy cells. Some of these differences cause the cells to exhibit various characteristics, listed in Table 18.1 of the textbook. Which features of cancer cell plasma membranes, internal structures, and metabolism explain why cancer cells lack contact inhibition, are invasive, and can metastasize? (6 MARKS)

Table 18.1 Characteristics of Cancer Cells Oilier, less adherent Loss of cell cycle control Heritable Transplantable Dedifferentiated Lack contact inhibition Induce local blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) Invasive Increased mutation rate Can spread (metastasize)

Explanation / Answer

Plasma membrane of cancerous cells have mostly GM3 type of gangliosides whereas the normal cells have four types of gangliosides namely GMIa, GM1,GM2,GM3. Also mitochondria of cancerous cells become swollen and the number of cristae is reduced. There also occurs slow disappearance of LETS protein in the cancer cells.

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