p53 is affectionately known as the “guardian of the genome”, working in our bodies as a major tumour suppressor
NCCS-A*STAR research collaboration reveals a way to individually identify the mutant gene, opening doors to possible drug treatment for cancer’s most common culprit.
In 1979, scientists discovered what might be the biggest cancer mystery to date - the p53 tumour suppressant protein.
p53 is affectionately known as the “guardian of the genome”, working in our bodies as a major tumour suppressor. However, when it becomes mutated, p53 loses its ability to prevent cancer formation, and even promotes cancer cell survival and hinders treatment.
For decades, scientists have attempted to switch its role from cancer accelerator to cancer suppressor. Currently, there are no approved drugs that work against the mutant gene – the large number of mutant p53 variations makes it hard for scientists to detect and treat them. Until now.
If successful, it means we can potentially treat almost fifty per cent of all human cancers which are caused by p53.
A recent breakthrough study puts scientists one step closer to solving the p53 puzzle – by generating antibodies that are specific to each p53 mutant type. Prof Kanaga Sabapathy, head of the division of cellular and molecular research at NCCS, explains.
“In our study, we discovered that the antibodies our team developed are able to identify the various types of mutant p53 individually. We are now moving on to find out whether these antibodies can be used as a drug to treat the mutant p53.
If successful, it means we can potentially treat almost fifty per cent of all human cancers which are caused by p53.”
His collaborator and co-lead in this breakthrough research is Prof Sir David Lane, chief scientist at A*STAR and widely known as one of the founders of the p53 protein.
“We hope that through our extensive research efforts in p53, we will be able to translate our findings to more targeted and impactful clinical outcomes,” said Prof Lane.
The research team presented their findings at the 17th International p53 Workshop, a five-day (8-12 July) event led by A*STAR and NCCS.
