| Background | The gene encoding WAF1, also termed p21, is transcriptionally regulated by the suppressor protein, p53. Overexpression of WAF1 is growth suppressive, possibly by inhibiting the activity of cyclin/CDK complexes. One consequence of WAF1 binding to cyclin/CDK is the inhibition of Rb protein phosphorylation. Induction of WAF1 expression requires wild type p53 activity in cells undergoing p53 dependent G1 arrest or apoptosis. Mutation of the p53 gene is a common event in human cancer and results in the failure to produce WAF1. The effect of this may lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation. |
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