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A naturally occurring cell protein (nm23) has been shown to inhibit the activity of cancer cells - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 3 - 2016
Question 3
A naturally occurring cell protein (nm23) has been shown to inhibit the activity of cancer cells. Individuals produce varying levels of this protein depending on th... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A naturally occurring cell protein (nm23) has been shown to inhibit the activity of cancer cells - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 3 - 2016
Step 1
Step 2
Use data from the graph to describe the changes in the percentage of surviving breast cancer patients with normal levels of the protein during the study.
Answer
Between 0 and 7 years after diagnosis, the percentage of surviving patients with normal levels of the protein decreased significantly. Specifically, it decreased from 100% to 62%. Then from 7 to 9 years, the survival percentage remained constant at 62%.
Step 3
Describe how cancer can develop and spread through the body.
Answer
Cancer develops when cells divide excessively, leading to the formation of a tumor composed of abnormal cells. These cells often lose the ability to respond to the mechanisms that typically prevent excessive growth.
As the tumor grows, cancer cells can detach from the original tumor and spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body, forming new tumors—known as secondary tumors or metastasis. This process significantly complicates treatment and can lead to a more advanced stage of cancer.