Ras is a GTP-binding protein involved in cell proliferation (division). In its active form, with GTP bound, Ras activates cell signaling pathways that promote cell division. Mutations in the gene that encodes Ras can lead to cancer. How might mutations in the gene encoding Ras lead to the uncontrolled proliferation characteristic of cancer cells?
A. They prevent Ras from being made.
B. They increase the rate at which Ras hydrolyzes GTP.
C. They decrease the protein’s affinity for GTP.
D. They increase the protein’s affinity for GDP.
E. They decrease the rate at which Ras hydrolyzes GTP.