[P53 and its malignant transformation protective role in human]

ABSTRACT

Mutations are the first step in carcinogenesis pathways and insufficiency in DNA repair is a risk factor for several cancers. Mutations may lead to loss of function of DNA repair proteins. Similarly, DNA polymorphisms may be associated with impairment in these proteins. Molecular events, which regulate cell survival, apoptosis, growth acceleration and cellular differentiation, have a critical role in kinetics of benign and malignant cellular growth and may influence the progression of tumorogenesis. P53 protein is a well-known tumor suppressor that is involved in many tumors in human and animal models and is a major controller of apoptosis. Level of P53 is increased, when genotoxic injuries occur. Because of its important role in preventing tumorogenesis, P53 is known as [Guardian of the Genome]. Mutant forms of this cannot play the proper role and may lead in cancer development. Mutation in P53 is the most common cancer-related mutation in human. On the other hand, cells with mutant P53 may respond weakly to chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. P53-targeted gene therapy is a supplementary goal of cancer treatment. This article is a review of mechanisms of action, regulation and damage of this gene