Tumor protein p53 gene (TP53)

The **Tumor protein p53 gene (TP53)** encodes p53, a pivotal transcription factor and tumor suppressor protein that controls cell cycle progression, DNA repair, apoptosis, and maintenance of genomic stability. It is nicknamed the "guardian of the genome" because of its crucial role in protecting cells from genetic damage and tumorigenesis. TP53 is the most commonly mutated gene in human cancer, with alterations found in over half of all tumors. Mutations (either inherited or acquired) compromise its tumor suppressor activity, resulting in uncontrolled cell proliferation and increased cancer risk, most notably in Li-Fraumeni syndrome. Its protein product regulates numerous downstream targets and interacts with many cellular proteins to mediate stress responses, making it a cornerstone of cancer biology and a major focus for therapeutic targeting.

Other names

p53 geneTP53tumor protein p53 genecellular tumor antigen p53transformation-related protein 53 (TRP53)P53 tumor suppressorphosphoprotein p53antigen NY-CO-13

Restoration of wild-type p53 function (mutant reactivation); MDM2 inhibition (to enhance p53 activity); Exploitation of p53 pathway for apoptosis induction; Selective toxicity for p53-deficient cells; Modulation of cell cycle arrest.