Which type of suppressor proteins are produced by BRCA1 and BRCA2?

• A. Tumor
• B. Papilloma
• C. Cyst
• D. Abscess

Answer: (A)

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are well-known genes that produce tumor suppressor proteins, which play a crucial role in maintaining genomic stability and repairing damaged DNA. When functioning normally, these proteins help prevent the formation of tumors by acting as a safeguard against unchecked cell division and the accumulation of genetic mutations that can lead to cancer.

In the context of breast and ovarian cancers, mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are significant because they impair the normal function of the tumor suppressor proteins. This impairment reduces the effectiveness of DNA repair mechanisms, ultimately increasing the risk of developing cancer. Thus, the answer accurately reflects the critical role these proteins play in tumor suppression.

The other answer choices—papilloma, cyst, and abscess—do not relate to the functions ascribed to BRCA1 and BRCA2. Papillomas are benign tumors caused by viruses, cysts are fluid-filled sacs in tissue, and abscesses are localized infections characterized by pus accumulation. They do not share the regulatory and protective roles against tumor formation that the BRCA proteins provide.