Work

Mechanisms of double-strand break repair in somatic mammalian cells

Year: 2009

Type: article

Abstract: DNA chromosomal DSBs (double-strand breaks) are potentially hazardous DNA lesions, and their accurate repair is essential for the successful maintenance and propagation of genetic information. Two major pathways have evolved to repair DSBs: HR (homologous recombination) and NHEJ (non-homologous end-joining). Depending on the context in which the break is encountered, HR and NHEJ may either compete or co-operate to fix DSBs in eukaryotic cells. Defects in either pathway are strongly associated with human disease, including immunodeficiency and cancer predisposition. Here we review the current knowledge of how NHEJ and HR are controlled in somatic mammalian cells, and discuss the role of the chromatin context in regulating each pathway. We also review evidence for both co-operation and competition between the two pathways.

Source: Biochemical Journal

DOI: 10.1042/bj20090942

Authors: Andrea J. Hartlerode, Ralph Scully

Institutions: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University

Language: English

Topic: DNA Repair Mechanisms

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of General Medical Sciences