Which term applies to genes that are involved in the repair of damaged DNA?

The correct answer is associated with genes that specifically participate in mechanisms to correct DNA damage. DNA repair genes play a crucial role in maintaining genomic stability by detecting and repairing various forms of DNA damage that can occur through environmental factors or normal cellular processes. These genes encode proteins that are involved in multiple repair pathways, including nucleotide excision repair, base excision repair, and double-strand break repair.

When DNA repair genes function correctly, they help prevent mutations from accumulating, which is vital for preventing diseases such as cancer. If these genes become mutated themselves, the ability of cells to repair DNA damage diminishes, potentially leading to increased mutation rates and the development of malignancies.

In contrast, the other terms mentioned refer to different aspects of cellular function. Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that can become oncogenes when mutated; they are involved in promoting cell division and growth. Oncogenes arise from mutated proto-oncogenes and can contribute to cancer development by driving uncontrolled cell proliferation. Mutator genes are a more general category that refers to genes that, when defective, increase the mutation rate in cells, which may or may not specifically involve DNA repair processes.