The role of the p53 gene in the development of papillary thyroid carcinoma and the new recognized therapeutic targets: A literature review

Abstract

The thyroid gland is the largest endocrine gland in the body. Among the functions of this gland, we can mention the secretion of the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), whose release occurs by the control of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Furthermore, it is involved in calcium metabolism, through the hormone calcitonin. Thyroid cancer is rare (about 1% of all neoplasms), however it is the most frequent among malignant endocrine neoplasms. Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) accounts for more than 80% of thyroid carcinomas. In this study, bibliographic searches were carried out using the descriptors “papillary thyroid carcinoma” and “p53”; results elucidated the role of the p53 gene in the development of CPT. Due to the fundamental role of the p53 family in cellular changes, there is currently a representation of very attractive targets in the development of anticancer drugs. Thus, the new therapeutic targets indicate that, mainly, multikinase inhibitors (MKIs) may represent a potential therapeutic target.