Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 24, 2026

Genetic Variant Detection in the CALR gene using High Resolution Melting Analysis
Published on: August 26, 2020
Common genetic variants in the TP53 pathway and their impact on cancer
Thibaut Barnoud1, Joshua L D Parris1,2, Maureen E Murphy1
1Program in Molecular and Cellular Oncogenesis, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Abstract:
The TP53 gene is well known to be the most frequently mutated gene in human cancer. In addition to mutations, there are > 20 different coding region single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TP53 gene, as well as SNPs in MDM2, the negative regulator of p53. Several of these SNPs are known to alter p53 pathway function. This makes p53 rather unique among cancer-critical genes, e.g. the coding regions of other cancer-critical genes like Ha-Ras, RB, and PI3KCA do not have non-synonymous coding region SNPs that alter their function in cancer. The next frontier in p53 biology will consist of probing which of these coding region SNPs are moderately or strongly pathogenic and whether they influence cancer risk and the efficacy of cancer therapy. The challenge after that will consist of determining whether we can tailor chemotherapy to correct the defects for each of these variants. Here we review the SNPs in TP53 and MDM2 that show the most significant impact on cancer and other diseases. We also propose avenues for how this information can be used to better inform personalized medicine approaches to cancer and other diseases.
Insights
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TP53 and MDM2 impact cancer. This review explores pathogenic SNPs, their role in cancer risk and therapy, and their use in personalized medicine.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- TP53 is the most frequently mutated gene in human cancers.
- Over 20 coding region single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) exist in TP53, alongside SNPs in MDM2, a key regulator of p53.
- Unlike other cancer-critical genes, TP53 harbors functional non-synonymous coding region SNPs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review SNPs in TP53 and MDM2 with significant impacts on cancer and other diseases.
- To identify pathogenic SNPs and their influence on cancer risk and therapeutic efficacy.
- To propose applications of this knowledge for personalized cancer medicine.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of SNPs in TP53 and MDM2.
- Analysis of functional impact of SNPs on p53 pathway.
- Exploration of clinical relevance for cancer risk and treatment.
Main Results:
- Several TP53 and MDM2 SNPs alter p53 pathway function.
- These SNPs are implicated in cancer development and progression.
- The functional impact of specific SNPs on cancer risk and therapy efficacy is under investigation.
Conclusions:
- TP53 and MDM2 SNPs represent a critical area for understanding cancer etiology and progression.
- Identifying and characterizing pathogenic SNPs is crucial for personalized medicine.
- Tailoring chemotherapy based on individual SNP profiles holds promise for improved cancer treatment outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Histone Variants at the Centromere
Common Ion Effect
C4 Pathway and CAM
C4 Pathway
The C4 pathway is used by plants such as...
Impact of Groups on Groups
Types of Genetic Transfer Between Organisms
Genetics of Speciation

