Final answer:
The p53 gene plays a role in regulating the cell cycle, promoting DNA repair, and triggering apoptosis. This helps eliminate potentially cancerous cells and maintains the overall health of a multicellular organism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The p53 gene is important in controlling apoptosis, but it also plays a role in regulating the cell cycle and promoting DNA repair. When DNA damage is detected, p53 triggers repair mechanisms. If the repairs are unsuccessful, p53 signals apoptosis, leading to the death of the damaged cell. This regulatory outcome benefits a multicellular organism by eliminating cells that could potentially become cancerous and protecting the overall health of the organism.