Abstract: P53, a critical suppression gene, has dual functions in the regulation of autophagy, depending on subcellular location, cytoplasm or nuclear. In the nucleus, P53 exerts its pro-autophagic function in transcription-dependent or independent manner. On the contrary, in the cytoplasm, P53 may inhibit the activation of autophagy, involving glycolysis metabolic transition. In conclusion, understanding its mechanisms will contribute to develop novel anti-cancer approaches.

Key words: P53, autophagy, dual functions