Final answer:
Mutations in the p53 gene can lead to multiple types of cancer. The p53 protein helps regulate cell growth and division, and when the gene is mutated, it can cause uncontrolled cell proliferation and suppression of apoptosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mutations in the p53 gene are associated with multiple types of cancer, including pancreatic, lung, renal cell, and breast cancer. The p53 protein is a tumor suppressor protein, which means it helps regulate cell growth and division. When the p53 gene is mutated, it can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and the suppression of apoptosis (programmed cell death), which are key characteristics of cancer cells.