Transcriptional activator which activates the CDKN2A/ARF locus in response to Ras-Raf signaling, thereby promoting p53/TP53-dependent growth arrest. Binds to the consensus sequence 5'-CCCG[GT]ATGT-3'. Interacts with the D-type cyclins CCND1, CCND2 and CCND3. Interaction with D-type cyclins may modulate transcriptional activation by this protein. Phosphorylated by the cyclin-D2/CDK4, cyclin-D3/CDK4 and cyclin-D2/CDK6 complexes and to a lesser extent by the cyclin-D1/CDK4 complex. Belongs to the DMTF1 family.