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TP53 and Longevity: What Your Genotype May Mean for Lifespan and Health

Longevity is shaped by both genes and lifestyle. One gene that plays a central role is TP53, often called the "guardian of the genome." TP53 makes the p53 protein, which monitors cells for DNA damage, pauses cell division to allow repair, and initiates the removal of cells that cannot be fixed. Variations in TP53 can change how p53 behaves. Some variants are associated with differences in cancer susceptibility and with aspects of cellular aging. That can create a balance where changes that help tissues maintain function over time may also influence cancer outcomes.

Below you will find clear, actionable information about what different rs1042522 genotypes can indicate, plus practical diet, supplement, lifestyle, and testing suggestions to support healthy aging. Remember that genetics is only one piece of the puzzle. Healthy habits have a major influence on outcomes regardless of genotype.

Key Principles to Support Longevity

  • Focus on a plant-rich diet high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats.
  • Maintain regular physical activity that includes both aerobic exercise and strength training.
  • Keep a healthy body weight and prioritize sleep quality.
  • Avoid tobacco, limit alcohol intake, and use sun protection to reduce cancer risk.
  • Keep up with age-appropriate medical screenings and vaccinations.
  • Consider targeted blood tests and personalized supplement strategies in consultation with your healthcare provider.

Diet, Supplements, Lifestyle, and Tests to Consider

Use the following ideas as educational options to discuss with your healthcare provider. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Always consult your clinician before making changes to diet, supplements, medications, or medical screening plans.

Diet

  • Emphasize colorful vegetables and fruits for antioxidant and phytochemical support of DNA repair pathways.
  • Include sources of omega 3 fatty acids such as fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed to support cell membrane health and inflammation control.
  • Prioritize whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds for fiber and stable blood sugar regulation.
  • Limit processed meats, excess red meat, highly processed foods, and added sugars, which can raise inflammation and cancer risk.
  • Consider moderate intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating patterns if appropriate and approved by your provider, as these may support cellular maintenance systems.

Supplements (Discuss with Your Provider)

  • Vitamin D: Many adults have suboptimal levels. Adequate vitamin D supports immune function and may influence cancer outcomes.
  • Omega 3 (EPA/DHA): For cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Multivitamin or targeted B vitamins: To ensure baseline micronutrient adequacy, especially B12 if you follow a plant-forward diet.
  • Antioxidant-rich botanicals such as curcumin or green tea extract can be considered but should be tailored to individual health and medication profile.

Lifestyle

  • Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity aerobic activity plus two sessions of resistance training.
  • Prioritize sleep hygiene. Aim for 7 to 9 hours nightly to support repair and stress resilience.
  • Manage stress with evidence-based tools like mindfulness, cognitive behavioral approaches, social connection, and purposeful activities.
  • Avoid tobacco entirely. If you smoke, speak with your provider about cessation supports.
  • Limit alcohol to recommended guidelines or avoid it if you have additional risk factors.

Monitoring and Tests to Discuss

  • Routine cancer screening as recommended for age and risk: mammography, colonoscopy, skin checks, cervical screening, and prostate screening when appropriate.
  • Vitamin D level, lipid panel, fasting glucose or HbA1c, and inflammatory markers such as hs-CRP when clinically indicated.
  • Consider genetic counseling if there is a strong family history of early onset cancers, multiple affected relatives, or known hereditary cancer syndromes.
Two effect alleles (GG) — interpretation

You have the GG genotype at rs1042522, meaning you carry two copies of the effect allele. This variant in TP53 is associated with a pattern linked to increased longevity in some studies, possibly related to improved cancer survival. The TP53 gene produces the p53 protein, which senses DNA damage and either helps repair cells or triggers removal of cells that are beyond repair. Your genotype may influence how p53 balances tumor suppression and tissue maintenance. That balance can be complex. In some contexts, changes that favor tissue health and repair are associated with longer survival, while in other contexts they could affect cancer risk differently.

What to keep doing

  • Continue or adopt lifestyle measures that reduce cancer risk and support cellular repair: plant-forward diet, regular exercise, sun protection, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol.
  • Stay current with screening recommendations and discuss any family history concerns with your clinician.
One effect allele (CG) — interpretation

You have the CG genotype at rs1042522, meaning you carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with a likely moderate increase in longevity in some research, possibly through mechanisms that improve cancer survival or tissue resilience. Your p53 protein may behave in a way that adjusts the balance between preventing cancer and preserving healthy cells during aging.

What to keep doing

  • Follow proven health habits that support DNA repair and lower cancer risk: balanced diet, consistent exercise, sleep, and avoidance of tobacco.
  • Work with your provider to ensure appropriate screening and to discuss whether any targeted testing or preventive measures are recommended based on personal and family history.
No effect alleles (CC) — interpretation

You have the CC genotype at rs1042522, meaning you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This common genotype is associated with typical TP53 function. Your p53 protein performs the standard roles of detecting DNA damage, pausing the cell cycle for repair, and initiating removal of irreparably damaged cells. This supports usual cellular aging and cancer defense mechanisms.

What to keep doing

  • Maintain preventive measures that support long-term health: nutritious diet, physical activity, sun safety, tobacco avoidance, and age-appropriate screenings.
  • If you have family history of cancer or early onset disease, discuss whether further genetic evaluation or earlier surveillance is warranted.

Final Notes and Important Disclaimer

This information is provided to educate about genetic predispositions and lifestyle strategies that may support healthy aging. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This content is not a substitute for professional medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, starting new supplements, changing medications, or altering screening schedules. If you have a significant personal or family history of cancer, consider speaking with a genetic counselor or specialist to discuss personalized risk assessment and management.