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Definition of p53
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
P53: A specific protein with a mass of 53 kilodaltons that is produced by a tumor-suppressor gene. Like other tumor-suppressor genes, the p53 gene normally controls cell growth. If p53 is physically lost or functionally inactivated, cells can grow without restraint. Many human tumors have mutations in the gene coding for the p53 protein.