Proto-oncogene associated with Burkitt’s lymphoma is?
**Core Concept**
Burkitt's lymphoma is a type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by a specific chromosomal translocation involving the c-myc gene. This translocation results in the overexpression of the c-myc protein, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumorigenesis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The c-myc gene is a proto-oncogene that encodes a transcription factor involved in cell cycle progression and apoptosis. In Burkitt's lymphoma, the t(8;14) translocation fuses the c-myc gene with the immunoglobulin heavy chain gene, leading to its overexpression. This results in the deregulation of c-myc, causing it to be constitutively active and promoting cell proliferation and tumorigenesis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect as it is not a known proto-oncogene associated with Burkitt's lymphoma.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect as it is a tumor suppressor gene, not a proto-oncogene.
* **Option D:** This option is incorrect as it is a gene involved in cell adhesion and signaling, not a proto-oncogene associated with Burkitt's lymphoma.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The c-myc gene is a common target of chromosomal translocations in various types of cancer, including Burkitt's lymphoma, breast cancer, and lung cancer. Understanding the role of c-myc in tumorigenesis is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
**Correct Answer:** C. c-myc