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Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Two- and Three-Dimensional Live Cell Imaging of DNA Damage Response Proteins
Published on: September 28, 2012
JimMY on the stage: Linking DNA damage with cell adhesion and motility
1Department of Cancer Biology, Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA. yingqunw@mail.med.upenn.edu
Abstract:
Cellular DNA undergoes constant assault from a wide range of genotoxic stress. In order to maintain genome integrity, cells develop a repertoire of sophisticated systems to detect DNA damage and mediate cellular responses to DNA damage. Defects in the DNA damage response have been implicated in a variety of disorders including aging and cancer. Tumor suppressor p53 is a key intermediate in DNA damage response by inducing cell cycle arrest to allow repair or promoting apoptosis to eliminate irreparably damaged cells. A recent study described a novel layer of p53-mediated cellular response to DNA damage, i.e., modulation of cell adhesion and motility. JMY, a p53 co-factor, was demonstrated to be a multifunctional protein that coordinates cell adhesion and motility with nuclear p53 response. These results suggest that abnormal JMY activity and/or localization could contribute to tumor invasion and reveal JMY as a potential therapeutic target.
Insights
Cellular DNA damage triggers responses to maintain genome integrity. A study reveals JMY protein coordinates cell adhesion and motility with DNA damage response, suggesting it as a therapeutic target for cancer.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Cells possess intricate DNA damage response (DDR) systems to maintain genome integrity against genotoxic stress.
- Defects in DDR are linked to aging and cancer development.
- Tumor suppressor p53 is crucial in DDR, mediating cell cycle arrest or apoptosis.
Discussion:
- A novel p53-mediated cellular response involves modulating cell adhesion and motility.
- The p53 co-factor JMY (Jumonji domain-containing protein) plays a multifunctional role.
- JMY coordinates nuclear p53 activity with cellular adhesion and migration processes.
Key Insights:
- JMY links the nuclear DNA damage response to the regulation of cell movement.
- Aberrant JMY activity or localization may promote tumor invasion and metastasis.
- JMY emerges as a potential therapeutic target for combating cancer progression.
Outlook:
- Further research into JMY's role in DDR and cell motility is warranted.
- Targeting JMY could offer new strategies for cancer therapy.
- Understanding JMY's regulation may elucidate mechanisms of aging and cancer.
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