How do mutations in MLH1 and MSH2 contribute to cancer?
Mutations in MLH1 and MSH2 can lead to a defect in the MMR system. When the MMR system is compromised, errors during DNA replication accumulate, leading to microsatellite instability (MSI) and an increased mutation rate. This accumulation of mutations can result in the activation of oncogenes or the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, ultimately contributing to the development of cancer.
