P53 mediates estradiol induced activation of apoptosis and DNA repair in non-malignant colonocytes

► Wild type p53 is necessary for E2-induced apoptosis in non-malignant colonocytes. ► E2 treatment enhances p53 accumulation in non-malignant colonocytes. ► Pro-apoptotic, p53 target genes are enhanced by E2 treatment. ► E2 treatment reduces radiation induced DNA damage foci in these cells.