But I'm Too Young! A Case Study of Ovarian Cancer
Co Authors:
Nancy A. Rice
Department of Biology
Western Kentucky University
nancy.rice@wku.edu
Bruno Borsari
Biology Department
Winona State University
bborsari@winona.edu
Abstract:
In this “clicker case,” students are introduced to Abby, a college student who has been diagnosed with
ovarian cancer. As they follow Abby’s plight, students learn about basic cellular and genetic mechanisms
that are responsible for cancer formation, gaining a general understanding of how cells become
cancerous through genetic mutations, how cancers can spread throughout the body by metastasizing,
and how modern medicine is currently treating patients diagnosed with cancer through surgery,
radiation, and chemotherapy. Developed for use in a large introductory biology course, the case consists
of a PowerPoint (~2MB) presented in class that is punctuated by multiple-choice questions the students
answer using “clickers.” The case can be adapted for use without these technologies.
Objectives:
 Define cancer and differentiate between benign and malignant tumors.
 Explain that cancers result from mutations in genes that control the cell cycle.
 Understand how cancerous cells move around the body.
 Know the difference between tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes, and understand how
these genes contribute to cancer formation.
Florida Standards
 SC.912.L.16.14: Describe the cell cycle, including the process of mitosis. Explain the role of
mitosis in the formation of new cells and its importance in maintaining chromosome number
during asexual reproduction.
 SC.912.L.16.8: Explain the relationship between mutation, cell cycle, and uncontrolled cell
growth potentially resulting in cancer.
Keywords:
Educational Level:
Formats:
Type/Method:
Subject Headings:
Copyright:
Ovarian cancer; genetic mutation; benign tumor; malignant tumor; BRCA1;
BRCA2; tumor suppressor genes; oncogenes
High school, Undergraduate lower division
PDF, PowerPoint
Clicker, Interrupted
Biology (General) Cell Biology Medicine (General) Genetics / Heredity
Copyright held by the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science