p16/Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor 2A Deficiency in Human Melanocyte Senescence, Apoptosis, and Immortalization: Possible Implications for Melanoma Progression

Abstract

Normal senescence in human melanocytes requires p16 activity. p53 contributes to a delayed form of senescence that requires telomere shortening, in p16-deficient melanocytes. These findings provide some basis for the role of p16 in melanoma susceptibility.