cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6)

Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6) are enzymes that play a crucial role in regulating the cell cycle, which is the process by which cells grow and divide. They help control the transition from the growth phase to the point where a cell is ready to divide. When CDK4/6 is activated by cyclins (proteins that regulate these enzymes), it allows the cell to progress, ensuring healthy growth. In some cancers, CDK4/6 can be overactive, leading to uncontrolled cell division. Therefore, targeted therapies that inhibit these kinases are being developed to treat certain types of cancers.