p53

A tumor suppressor gene located on the short arm of chromosome 17 that encodes a nucleophosphoprotein that binds DNA and negatively regulates cell division; frequently measured as a marker of malignant diseases.

p53

(pē′fĭf′tē-thrē′)n.1. A protein that regulates normal cell growth and proliferation and prevents unrestrained division of cells whose DNA has been damaged, as from ultraviolet or ionizing radiation. The absence of functional p53, usually resulting from a genetic mutation, increases the risk of developing various cancers.2. The tumor suppressor gene that codes for this protein. Also called TP53.

p53

A 53 kD nuclear phosphoprotein encoded by the proto-oncogene p53, on chromosome 17p13; in its wild form, p53 inhibits cell growth control and transformation; it activates transcription of genes that suppress cell proliferation, acting as a tumor suppressor protein; if p53 is physically lost or functionally inactived, cells can grow without restraint. See Li-Fraumeni syndrome, p21, Tumor suppressor genes, WAF1.

p53

A gene that codes for P21. A tumour suppressor gene, the absence or mutation of which can greatly increase the probability that cancer will develop. When DNA damage, as from anticancer drugs, occurs in normal cells the expression of p53 is increased. The p53 protein may then act to protect the cell by halting the cell cycle so that the DNA damage can be repaired, or, if the DNA damage is too severe, p53 protein can kill the cell by APOPTOSIS so that the defective DNA is not passed on. Mutations in p53 have been found in a range of cancers including those of the breast, colon, ovary, bladder and oesophagus. They have also been found to be associated with failure to respond to anticancer drugs.