Expression and Role of p53 in the Retina

Abstract

Since it was identified in 1979, p53 has been widely studied for its role in tumor suppression. It is mutated in approximately half of all human cancers, leading to aberrant cell growth. In addition to its role as a tumor suppressor, p53 is activated in response to various cell stress signals, including DNA damage and hypoxia. This activation leads to alterations in target gene expression, giving p53 a regulatory role in diverse cellular functions such as apoptosis, senescence, and cell cycle arrest. Throughout life, the eye is exposed to a multitude of stressors including disease, light-induced damage, and oxidative stress, all of which can lead to debilitating loss of vision. This article examines the role of p53 during ocular development. Finally, the role of p53 is examined in ocular response to intense light exposure, ionizing radiation, oxidative stress, degenerative disorders, and retinoblastoma.