Formation of stable p53 homotetramers and multiples of tetramers

Abstract

We have used gradient gel electrophoresis and chemical cross-linking to analyze the quaternary structure of purified, wild-type, murine p53. Under nondenaturing conditions, p53 electrophoreses as tetramers and multiples of tetramers. Under denaturing conditions, fully cross-linked p53 also behaves as tetrameric structures. We confirmed the composition of the tetramers by partially cross-linking p53 and dissociating tetramers into monomers, dimers, and trimers.