A gene provides the instructions for making the protein p53, which attaches to damaged DNA while replication is taking place and stops that DNA from being copied. A carcinogen found in cigarette smoke mutates this gene. Which statement explains why this mutation may lead to cancer?
- ALack of p53 allows cells to undergo mitosis.
- BLack of p53 allows cells with damaged DNA to replicate.
- CThe carcinogen in cigarette smoke increases the rate of cell division.
- DThe p53 causes uncontrolled cell division.