p21 in cancer: intricate networks  and multiple activities.
One of the main engines that drives cellular transformation is the loss of proper control of the mammalian cell cycle. The cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 (also known as p21WAF1/Cip1) promotes cell cycle arrest in response to many stimuli. It is well positioned to function as both a sensor and an effector of multiple anti-proliferative signals. This Review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of the regulation of p21 and its biological functions with emphasis on its p53-independent tumour suppressor activities and paradoxical tumour-promoting activities, and their implications in cancer.
Abbas
Tarek
T
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, School of Medicine, 1340 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. tabbas@virginia.edu
Dutta
Anindya
A
D000818:Animals; D002453:Cell Cycle; D050759:Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p21 / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000503:physiopathology*; D016159:Tumor Suppressor Protein p53 / Q000378:metabolism
D050759:Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p21; D016159:Tumor Suppressor Protein p53