“The guardian of the genome” or p53 is essentially a gene that codes for a protein that regulates the cell cycle. One may categorize p53 as a tumor suppressor as many of the genetic mutations could lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation. The protein itself was discovered in the 1970’s and ever since has been well-studied as its key role in the pathogenesis of human cancers is fundamental. The gene converts incoming signals into alternate cell fate decisions by changing the expression of hundreds of target genes. With its wide range of function in activity of interacting pathways and various types of stimulus that is generated, the p53 system has the ability to generate multiple responses. This lab aims to explore the cellular responses of the p53 pathway given different forms of genotoxic stress. Genotoxins are destructive chemical agents that result in a negative effect on cells genetic material. These genotoxins can be mutagens, carcinogens or teratogens, in which they all result in some type of damaged genome.
Comments
Suggestion
The word "essentially" is not needed in the first sentence. The sentence means the same thing without the word. It is good to be as straight-to-the-point as possible in scientific writing. Also, the gene is called TP53, the protein it encodes is called p53.
suggestion
Instead of using "could" in the second sentence use the word can since the sentence will then flow better.