Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A)

Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) is a critical tumor suppressor gene that encodes two main proteins: p16(INK4A) and p14(ARF). These proteins regulate the cell cycle and prevent uncontrolled cell proliferation. p16(INK4A) inhibits CDK4 and CDK6, preventing Rb protein phosphorylation and G1 to S-phase transition. p14(ARF) activates the p53 tumor suppressor pathway by binding to MDM2 and preventing its degradation of p53, ultimately inducing G2 arrest and apoptosis. CDKN2A plays a vital role in cellular senescence. Mutations or deletions in CDKN2A are common in various cancers, and the gene is also associated with vascular disease and Moyamoya Disease. CDK inhibitors are being developed to target the pathways affected by CDKN2A loss, demonstrating its therapeutic relevance.

Other names

p16(INK4A)p14(ARF)p19ARF (mouse)

CDK1, CDK4, CDK5, and CDK7 inhibitor