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How does p53 act as the guardian of the genome?
Dubbed the “guardian of the genome,” the p53 protein (blue) senses damage in DNA (pink) and triggers a protective response. The most commonly mutated gene in cancer, p53, works by shifting cell metabolism in a way that alters a cell’s identity, researchers at the Sloan Kettering Institute have discovered.
Why is p53 referred to as the guardian of the genome?
By stopping cells with mutated or damaged DNA from dividing, p53 helps prevent the development of tumors. Because p53 is essential for regulating DNA repair and cell division, it has been nicknamed the “guardian of the genome.”
What is the nature of p53?
p53 is a cellular stress sensor that triggers transient cell cycle arrest, permanent cell cycle arrest (cellular senescence) and apoptosis in response to a host of diverse stresses, including DNA damage, hyperproliferative signals, hypoxia, oxidative stress, ribonucleotide depletion and nutrient starvation11,12 (Figs 1 …
What does the p53 gene promote?
Activated p53 promotes cell cycle arrest to allow DNA repair and/or apoptosis to prevent the propagation of cells with serious DNA damage through the transactivation of its target genes implicated in the induction of cell cycle arrest and/or apoptosis.
Is p53 in all cells?
As many as 50% of all human tumors contain p53 mutants. In normal cells, the p53 protein level is low. DNA damage and other stress signals may trigger the increase of p53 proteins, which have three major functions: growth arrest, DNA repair and apoptosis (cell death).
How big is the p53 gene?
Gene. In humans, the TP53 gene is located on the short arm of chromosome 17 (17p13.1). The gene spans 20 kb, with a non-coding exon 1 and a very long first intron of 10 kb.
Is p53 associated with hereditary cancers?
LFS is a hereditary genetic condition. This means that the cancer risk can be passed from generation to generation in a family. This condition is most commonly caused by a mutation (alteration) in a gene called TP53, which is the genetic blueprint for a protein called p53.
Where is the p53 gene located?
A gene that makes a protein that is found inside the nucleus of cells and plays a key role in controlling cell division and cell death. Mutations (changes) in the p53 gene may cause cancer cells to grow and spread in the body.