Definition

A gene that makes a protein that is found inside the nucleus of cells and plays a key role in controlling cell division and cell death. Mutations (changes) in the tumor protein p53 gene may cause cancer cells to grow and spread in the body. These changes have been found in a genetic condition called Li-Fraumeni syndrome and in many types of cancer. The tumor protein p53 gene is a type of tumor suppressor gene. Also called p53 gene and TP53 gene.