Chapter 12, Problem 1TC

Summary Introduction

To determine:

A hypothesis that a genetic condition, such as cancer is due to mistakes in transcription and translation.

Introduction:

Transcription is a process by which the DNA strand is transcribed into mRNA. Translation is a process by which mRNA is translated into the proteins. Any change or alteration in the sequence of DNA causes mutation in the genetic material which may leads to cancer.

Explanation of Solution

The changes or mistakes at transcription or translation step are very rare but some alterations in enzyme and molecules involved with these two processes may cause cancer.

There are various types of RNA like snRNA and miRNA that are responsible for the regulation of translation and RNA processing steps. Thus, if there is any mutation seen in snRNA and miRNAs, the process of transcription and translation will be affected.

This hypothesis could be tested by taking some normal eukaryotic cells and some mutant eukaryotic cells. These cells are then grown under lab conditions by providing proper medium with methylating agents.

When different RNAs of these cells are isolated, their rate of mutations will determine whether they will develop cancer or not. The mutated cells, in which mutation was present in RNAs that regulate transcription and translation steps, will show uncontrolled growth or cell division. This shows that if there is any mistake during the steps of transcription and translation, the whole genetic information of DNA could be disturbed which may cause mutation or cancer.

Conclusion

Any alteration in the transcription or translation level can cause the formation of faulty proteins that could lead to cancer or mutations in genetic sequences.