Advanced Pathophysiology Practice Exam

Oncogenes are indeed genes that have undergone mutations that result in their products—typically proteins—that promote cell proliferation and survival. When these genes become activated through mutations, they can drive the excessive division and growth of cells, contributing to tumor development and cancer progression.

The correct choice emphasizes the role of oncogenes in accelerating the rate of tissue proliferation, which aligns with the understanding that these mutated genes push cells toward uncontrolled growth. This uncontrolled proliferation is a hallmark of cancerous tissues and contrasts with normal regulatory mechanisms that would typically keep cell division in check.

When considering the other options, they do not accurately represent the function of oncogenes. For example, while genes that negatively regulate tissue growth are important in normal cellular mechanisms, oncogenes specifically refer to those that lead to increased growth and proliferation rather than inhibition. Similarly, while the synthesis of proteins for tissue replacement may involve various genes, it does not specifically pertain to the actions of oncogenes. Oncogenes are also not directly responsible for guiding malignant tissue toward blood vessels; rather, that process is more related to the function of other genes involved in invasion and metastasis. Hence, the role of oncogenes is clearly linked to the acceleration of tissue proliferation.