Glycogen synthetase kinase 3 beta is a protein kinase that has been implicated in many types of cancer. Depending on the cell type, the gene for glycogen synthetase kinase 3 beta (GSK3beta ) can act either as an oncogene or as a tumor suppressor. Which of the following best predicts how GSK 3beta mutations can lead to the development of cancer? A Cells with inactive GSK 3beta fail to trigger apoptosis. B Cells with inactive GSK 3beta fail to proceed past the G_(2)/M checkpoint. C Cells with overactive GSK 3beta are more likely to repair DNA damage. D Cells with overactive GSK 3beta have longer cell cycles.

The correct answer is A: Cells with inactive GSK $3\beta $ fail to trigger apoptosis.<br /><br />Explanation:<br />Glycogen synthetase kinase 3 beta (GSK $3\beta $) is a protein kinase that plays a crucial role in regulating cell growth and survival. Mutations in the GSK $3\beta $ gene can lead to the development of cancer by disrupting its normal function.<br /><br />In normal cells, GSK $3\beta $ acts as a tumor suppressor by promoting apoptosis (programmed cell death) in response to cellular stress or DNA damage. Apoptosis is a crucial mechanism that eliminates damaged or abnormal cells, preventing the development of cancer.<br /><br />When GSK $3\beta $ is mutated, it can become inactive or overactive. Inactive GSK $3\beta $ fails to trigger apoptosis, allowing cells with genetic mutations or other abnormalities to survive and proliferate. This can lead to the formation of tumors and the development of cancer.<br /><br />Therefore, the best prediction of how GSK $3\beta $ mutations can lead to the development of cancer is that cells with inactive GSK $3\beta $ fail to trigger apoptosis, allowing the proliferation of abnormal cells.