Multiple choice

How does p53 prevent the advancement of cancer in humans?

  1. It acts as a transcription factor.

  2. It restricts the replication of cells with damaged DNA.

  3. It restricts the cells from triggering apoptosis.

  4. It regulates the synthesis of DNA repair enzymes, which replaces telomeres.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

TP53 protein is normally present at very low levels in the cell because it is broken down very quickly after its synthesis. The p53 gene is a tumour suppressor gene, which is inactivated in at least 50% of all cancers. Its role is to prevent the replication of cells with damaged DNA.

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