p16INK4A

p16INK4A is a protein that plays a crucial role in regulating the cell cycle, which is the process by which cells grow and divide. It acts as a tumor suppressor, meaning it helps prevent cells from growing uncontrollably, a hallmark of cancer. By inhibiting certain enzymes, p16INK4A prevents cells from entering a phase of the cycle where they could proliferate excessively. Mutations or reductions in p16INK4A levels are often associated with various cancers, making it a significant focus in cancer research and a potential biomarker for diagnosing and understanding tumor behavior.