Which of These Statements Best Describes Gene Expression in a Damaged

Question

Which of these statements best describes gene expression in a damaged cell?
A) In a damaged cell, p53 is low and BAX transcription is inactive, so Bcl- 2 represses apoptosis.
B) In a damaged cell, p53 is high and BAX transcription is active, so Bcl- 2 is repressed and apoptosis is induced.
C) In a damaged cell, p53 is high and BAX transcription is inactive, so Bcl- 2 is activated and apoptosis is induced.
D) In a damaged cell, p53 is low and BAX transcription is active, so Bcl- 2 is repressed and apoptosis is induced.
E) In a damaged cell, p53 is low and BAX transcription is active, so Bcl- 2 represses apoptosis.

Accepted Answer

In a damaged cell, the p53 protein typically accumulates and becomes active, leading to the transcription of pro-apoptotic genes such as BAX. BAX then counteracts the anti-apoptotic effects of Bcl-2, promoting apoptosis and preventing the proliferation of damaged cells. This process is crucial for preventing the accumulation of mutations and the development of cancer.