Tumor suppressor protein p53 (p53)

p53 is a critical tumor suppressor protein that regulates cell division by preventing cells from proliferating too rapidly or in an uncontrolled manner. It acts as a transcription factor, binding directly to DNA in the nucleus of cells throughout the body. When cellular DNA is damaged by factors such as chemicals, radiation, or UV light, p53 determines whether the damage can be repaired. If repair is possible, it activates genes involved in DNA repair; if not, it signals for apoptosis (programmed cell death), thereby preventing propagation of potentially cancerous cells. TP53 is mutated in over half (>50%) of all human cancers.

Other names

TP53

Induces expression of genes involved in cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, senescence, and DNA repair.