摘要: p53 is a multifunctional protein which plays role in modulating gene transcription, policing cell cycle checkpoints, activating apoptosis, controlling DNA replication and repair, maintaining genomic stability responding to genetic insults. Mutation of the confers single greatest known selective advantage favoring cancer formation. Point mutations result not only loss tumor suppressor functions, but also gain promotion functions. These dual circumstances may be unique and, part, could explain relatively powerful force behind this selection pressure. General mechanisms function by mutated include alteration transcriptional modulation newly acquired targets for regulation binding. Despite direct significance mutations, remaining wild-type allele usually required formation tumors natural setting. Novel applications basic scientific knowledge lead an improvement treatment, hopefully so distant future.