CDKN2A

CDKN2A is a gene that helps regulate the cell cycle, which is the process that controls how cells grow and divide. It produces proteins that act as brakes on cell division, preventing uncontrolled growth. Mutations in the CDKN2A gene can lead to a loss of these regulatory effects, increasing the risk of certain cancers, particularly melanoma (a type of skin cancer). Understanding CDKN2A is important for cancer research and can help in assessing genetic risk for individuals and families.