Overview

8th Grade Science

Cells to Systems

6. Disease

6.1 Cellular Disease, Cancer and mutations

Cellular Disease, Cancer, and Mutations: How DNA Changes Drive Uncontrolled Cell Growth

Learners will explore how genetic mutations in key regulatory genes lead to cancer, and how the body's protective mechanisms work to prevent uncontrolled cell division.

What You'll Learn

Cancer develops when DNA mutations disrupt normal cell division control.

Oncogenes accelerate division while tumor suppressor genes normally prevent it.

Carcinogens, radiation, and viruses are environmental factors causing mutations.

Apoptosis and DNA repair mechanisms protect cells from becoming cancerous.

What You'll Practice

Students analyze how mutations in regulatory genes lead to cancer.

Learners distinguish oncogenes, tumor suppressors, and carcinogen effects.

Practice questions cover metastasis, apoptosis, and cancer treatment concepts.

Why This Matters

Understanding how genetic mutations cause cancer equips students with essential scientific literacy for making informed health decisions and pursuing careers in medicine and biological research.

This Unit Includes

Practice exercises

Learning resources

Skills

DNA Mutations

Oncogenes

Tumor Suppressors

Apoptosis

Metastasis

OR Curriculum Aligned