University of Coimbra researchers identify new p53 protein variant

A research team led by the Multidisciplinary Institute of Aging (MIA-Portugal) at the University of Coimbra has identified a new variant of the p53 protein, named Delta246p53. This discovery, made by the Molecular Aging, RNA Chemistry, and Oncogenesis research group, could provide new insights into controlling cellular aging and tumor multiplication.

In laboratory settings, the Delta246p53 variant was shown to induce cellular senescence—the process where cells stop dividing—and inhibit tumor formation. The protein is produced from the TP53 gene, often referred to as the ‘guardian of the genome,’ which is responsible for repairing DNA and regulating cell division.

Lead researcher Marco Candeias noted that if the expression of this protein can be restricted to cells at risk of oncological transformation, it may offer potential for extending life expectancy while simultaneously strengthening defenses against cancer.