A researcher introduces a mutation that causes a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) to dimerize and autophosphorylate even in the absence of its ligand. What is the most likely consequence for the cell?

Core Concept

RTKs activate pathways such as MAP kinase cascades that stimulate cell proliferation. A ligand-independent, always-active RTK drives continuous signaling, leading to uncontrolled cell division, a hallmark of cancer.