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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Application of Laser Micro-irradiation for Examination of Single and Double Strand Break Repair in Mammalian Cells
Published on: September 5, 2017
XRCC1 and DNA strand break repair
1Genome Damage and Stability Centre, University of Sussex, Science Park Road, BN1 9RQ, Falmer Brighton, UK. k.w.caldecott@sussex.ac.uk
Abstract:
DNA single-strand breaks can arise indirectly, as normal intermediates of DNA base excision repair, or directly from damage to deoxyribose. Because single-strand breaks are induced by endogenous reactive molecules such as reactive oxygen species, these lesions pose a continuous threat to genetic integrity. XRCC1 protein plays a major role in facilitating the repair of single-strand breaks in mammalian cells, via an ability to interact with multiple enzymatic components of repair reactions. Here, the protein-protein interactions facilitated by XRCC1, and the repair processes in which these interactions operate, are reviewed. Models for the repair of single-strand breaks during base excision repair and at direct breaks are presented.
Insights
DNA single-strand breaks threaten genetic integrity but are repaired by XRCC1 protein. This review details XRCC1
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- DNA single-strand breaks (SSBs) are critical lesions.
- SSBs arise from endogenous reactive oxygen species and direct deoxyribose damage.
- These lesions pose a constant threat to genomic stability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the protein-protein interactions mediated by XRCC1.
- To elucidate the role of XRCC1 in DNA repair pathways.
- To present models for SSB repair mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of protein-protein interactions.
- Analysis of XRCC1's role in DNA repair.
- Development of mechanistic models for SSB repair.
Main Results:
- XRCC1 facilitates SSB repair by interacting with multiple repair enzymes.
- These interactions are crucial for both base excision repair and direct break repair.
- Specific models illustrating these repair processes are presented.
Conclusions:
- XRCC1 is a key scaffold protein in mammalian SSB repair.
- Understanding XRCC1 interactions provides insight into maintaining genetic integrity.
- The presented models enhance comprehension of DNA repair pathways.
Related Concept Videos
Nucleotide Excision Repair
Fixing Double-strand Breaks
Homologous Recombination
Restarting Stalled Replication Forks
Fixing Double-strand Breaks
Homologous Recombination

