The RET gene codes for a receptor protein that coordinates cell signaling pathways to promote cell division under controlled conditions. An activating mutation in the RET gene creates an oncogene, which can lead to tumour development.
Suggest and explain how an activating mutation in the RET gene can cause a tumour to develop.
Mutations in the RET gene are strongly linked to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Scientists investigated the survival times of three groups of PDAC patients who also had chronic Type 2 diabetes:
The scientists performed a statistical test to compare the survival times of these groups against a control group of PDAC patients with no history of Type 2 diabetes. Their results are shown in Table 1.
Table 1: Effects of diabetes treatments on the survival of PDAC patients
| Group | Mean survival time of PDAC patients / months | Probability value (PPP) |
|---|---|---|
| No history of Type 2 diabetes | 18.2 | - |
| Group A | 11.4 | 0.002 |
| Group B | 24.6 | 0.012 |
| Group C | 19.5 | 0.380 |
Using the information provided in the table, what can you conclude about the effects of Type 2 diabetes and the different drug treatments on the survival time of PDAC patients?
