p53: Hero or Villain

Abstract

            The tumor suppressing protein, p53, is a widely studied subject of which loads of knowledge has been gained but overall it is still a mystery. The p53 protein has many roles in the cell, some of which are activation of cell cycle arrest, senescence, and differentiation. The interesting information about p53 that really brings this particular protein to the attention of many people however is its ability to selectively destroy stressed, abnormal, or damaged cells. These techniques possessed by the protein thereby help the system to prevent cancer development. p53 can also lead to severe cell degradation if it is not closely regulated. Many instances can lead to these occurrences, even events where p53 brings it on itself. Here we will look into what stimulates the actions of the p53 and reasons behind why it works the way it does.