The protein known as p53 is involved in regulating cell division. If it becomes unstable, it can form aggregates similar to amyloid deposits. Mutant forms of p53 can accumulate these aggregates, affecting organ and nervous system function.
But a small tweezer-like molecule called CLR01 can bind to mutant p53 and prevent further aggregation, protecting cells from the toxic effects. CLR01 does this by interacting with exposed lysine residues and disrupting interactions that are important for protein aggregation.
