The p53 tumor suppressor protein is encoded by the TP53 gene located on chromosome 17p13. Under normal conditions the TP53 gene functions as a safeguard in maintaining cellular homeostasis1.
Furthermore, the TP53 gene regulates suppressive mechanisms that mediate cell cycle arrest, senescence and apoptosis1. Chromosomal abnormalities involving the TP53 gene are associated with several hematological cancers1. TP53 gene deletions have been commonly identified in both multiple myeloma (MM) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients1, 2. Regarded as a prognostic marker, TP53 gene deletions are identified in approximately 10% of MM patients and in 5-10% of CLL patients1, 2. Conventional cytogenetic techniques such FISH can be used to identified TP53 deletion with high accuracy.