Point mutations and/or rearrangements in the tumor suppressor gene p53 are the most common genetic alterations in human cancers. Recent observations indicate that the sum and substance of p53 protein function is the prevention of tumor formation by preservation of genetic stability. This review summarizes and critically discusses various biochemical activities of p53 in relation to the known structural properties of this molecule. It will become apparent that several of the well-accepted biochemical activities of p53 such as p53 oligomerization, p53-protein interactions, and its association with nucleic acids are difficult to reconcile with the known structural features of the p53 polypeptide. More knowledge about the structure-function relationship is thus a critical issue for understanding the biological function of p53 at the molecular level.

Related Articles