What is the role of CDKN1C in cell cycle regulation?
CDKN1C plays a critical role in cell cycle regulation by halting cell cycle progression at the G1 phase. It achieves this by binding to cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) complexes, particularly CDK2 and CDK4, inhibiting their activity. This inhibition prevents the phosphorylation of the retinoblastoma protein (Rb), thereby blocking the cell from entering the S phase where DNA replication occurs. As a result, CDKN1C is essential for maintaining cellular quiescence and preventing uncontrolled cellular proliferation, a hallmark of cancer.
