Cross-Species Hybrid Proteins: Advancing Tumor Suppression and DNA Repair with p53-SOG1 Fusion

The tumor suppressor protein p53 is a central regulator of DNA damage response, apoptosis, and cell cycle control in mammals. Similarly, SOG1 (Suppressor of Gamma Response 1) is a plant-specific transcription factor that plays a crucial role in DNA repair and stress adaptation. Despite their origins in different biological kingdoms, p53 and SOG1 share structural and functional similarities, suggesting the potential for a hybrid protein that could enhance DNA damage response mechanisms across species. This research explores the rationale for designing a p53-SOG1 hybrid protein, integrating plant and animal DNA repair pathways. It examines the molecular mechanisms underlying p53 and SOG1 function, their shared DNA-binding domains, and their roles in tumor suppression and genomic stability. The study also reviews previous hybrid protein models, outlining strategies for bioengineering, expression, and functional validation of the proposed hybrid. Potential applications of the p53-SOG1 hybrid include cancer therapy, gene therapy, and agricultural biotechnology. In cancer treatment, the hybrid protein could restore DNA repair and tumor suppression in p53-deficient cancers, offering a novel approach to overcoming drug resistance. In agriculture, integrating SOG1’s stress resistance mechanisms could lead to genetically engineered crops with improved DNA repair capabilities under environmental stressors. Challenges such as structural stability, gene delivery, and regulatory concerns are discussed, along with strategies to optimize protein design, expression, and translational applications. This paper follows the Harvard referencing style, incorporating recent studies on hybrid proteins, cancer biology, and plant stress responses. Future research directions include computational modeling, in vitro testing, and preclinical trials to assess the feasibility and therapeutic potential of this novel hybrid protein