The function of p53 protein in mitochondria

Protein p53 is known as a tumor supressor. In nucleus, p53 regulates the expression of its target genes, which are involved in cell cycle control, DNA repair and cell death. Protein p53 also has transcription-independent activities outside the nucleus. Certain amount of this protein can be found in mitochondria, where it is involved in mitochondrial genom integrity maintaining. Under stress conditions, p53 rapidly translocates to outer mitochondrial membrane, and takes a part in apoptotic signalling pathway. Keywords: p53, mitochondria, mtDNA, apoptosi