Identification of p21 (CIP1/WAF1) as a direct target gene of HIC1 (Hypermethylated In Cancer 1)

► Overexpression of HIC1 reduces p21 expression. ► Knock-down of HIC1 superinduces p21 in response to DNA damages independently of p53. ► HIC1 binds to the p21 promoter to repress its transcription. ► HIC1 is a key player of the DNA damage response.