In search of the functions of normal p53 protein.
p53 is of major importance in protecting cells from neoplasia. Most human tumours have an abnormal or inactivated p53 protein. Furthermore, when expression of normal p53 is reinstated in cancer cell lines, they undergo growth suppression leading to either cell differentiation or programmed cell death. But is p53 involved in the regulation of normal cell growth and differentiation in vivo? Here, Varda Rotter and colleagues critically assess some recent conflicting data on this issue.
Rotter
V
V
Department of Cell Biology, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
Foord
O
O
Navot
N
N