The p53 tumor suppressor is a crucial protein in the regulation of the cell cycle and plays a significant role in preventing cancer. Often referred to as the "guardian of the genome," p53 is encoded by the TP53 gene located on chromosome 17. This protein acts as a transcription factor that responds to various cellular stresses by regulating the expression of target genes involved in cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, senescence, DNA repair, and changes in metabolism.
