You Are Asked to Participate in a Clinical Trial for a New

question 8

Multiple Choice

You are asked to participate in a clinical trial for a new drug that can activate telomerase.Which of the following is a likely risk of such a drug?

• A)decreased capacity for tissue repair
• B)increased vulnerability to cancer
• C)premature aging
• D)decreased telomere length

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Definitions:

Tyrosine Kinase Receptor

A plasma membrane receptor that phosphorylates the tyrosine part of proteins; when a ligand binds to the receptor, the conformation of the receptor changes and it may phosphorylate itself as well as other molecules; important in immune function and serves as a receptor for insulin.

Ras Proteins

A family of proteins involved in transmitting signals within cells, playing a role in cell growth and development.

Fibroblast Cells

A type of cell found in connective tissue that produces collagen and other fibers, playing a crucial role in wound healing and tissue repair.

Growth Factors

A group of more than 50 extracellular peptides that signal certain cells to grow and divide.