Gene changes linked to cancer and other diseases

The p53 protein, made from the TP53 gene, works to protect cells from out-of-control cell division resulting in cancer. Although p53 is associated with cancer, it belongs to a family of genes that have many roles in the body. Researchers hypothesize that other diseases may be caused by mutations in these other genes. By looking at gene changes in adults and children, this study will help us find new gene changes that could be important in many diseases.