Question

Tumor-suppressor genes help prevent uncontrolled cell growth. One that is found mutated (and therefore nonfunctional) in more than 50% of human cancer is p53. So important is the p53 gene that it is sometimes called the "guardian angel of the genome." Describe the double whammy that results from mutation of p53.

Answer 1

p53 helps the cells from passing on mutations that lead to DNA damage. Hence, it is known as the guardian angel of the cell as it helps fight against cancer. However, if p53 becomes defective or missing, then the mutations will lead to cancer.

Mutations in the p53 can also cause the tumor-suppressing genes to convert into tumor causing genes. Hence, mutations in such kind of genes can be very harmful for the body.