In the hallmarks of cancer framework, the ability of tumor cells to resist cell death despite DNA damage relates to which specific molecular alteration most commonly seen in human cancers?
- A Amplification of MDM2
- B Point mutation in TP53 ✓
- C Inactivation of RB1 protein
- D Overexpression of cyclin D1
Correct answer: B. Point mutation in TP53
Explanation
TP53 mutation is the single most common genetic alteration in human cancers (>50%), and loss of p53 function abolishes the G1/S and G2/M checkpoints that normally arrest or eliminate cells with DNA damage. MDM2 amplification also inactivates p53 but is far less common. RB1 inactivation affects the G1 checkpoint via E2F release but principally drives cell cycle entry rather than apoptosis resistance per se.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.