The Guardian of the Genome: p53's Role in Cancer Suppression and Therapy

Abstract

p53, often referred to as "The Guardian of the Genome," is a crucial tumor suppressor gene that plays a pivotal role in maintaining genomic stability and preventing cancer development. Through its ability to regulate cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, DNA repair, and senescence, p53 serves as a gatekeeper against malignancies. Mutations in the p53 gene are among the most common alterations in human cancers, often leading to loss of its tumor-suppressing function, which allows uncontrolled cell proliferation. This review explores p53’s mechanisms of action, its regulation, and the consequences of its dysfunction in cancer. Additionally, we discuss the therapeutic strategies being developed to restore or mimic p53 function in cancer therapy, including gene therapy, small molecules, and immunotherapeutic approaches. Understanding the complex role of p53 in cancer suppression offers hope for the development of targeted, personalized therapies to treat p53-deficient cancers.