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DNA-PK as an Emerging Therapeutic Target in Cancer

Ismail S Mohiuddin1, Min H Kang1

  • 1Cancer Center, Department of Pediatrics, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.

Frontiers in Oncology
|August 6, 2019
PubMed

Insights

DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) is crucial for cell survival and DNA repair. This review explores DNA-PK

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) is a key member of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-related kinase (PIKK) family.
  • DNA-PK is essential for cellular survival, proliferation, and mediates the response to DNA damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the structure and established roles of DNA-PK in DNA repair.
  • To discuss the lesser-known functions of DNA-PK, including its roles in transcription, cell cycle regulation, and telomere maintenance.
  • To explore pharmacotherapies targeting DNA-PK and its potential as a broader therapeutic target, particularly in oncology.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research on DNA-PK.
  • Analysis of DNA-PK's structure, function, and therapeutic implications.

Main Results:

  • DNA-PK is a critical mediator of DNA damage response pathways.
  • Beyond DNA repair, DNA-PK influences transcription, cell cycle progression, and telomere maintenance.
  • Inhibitors of DNA-PK show promise as cancer therapeutics, especially in combination with genotoxic agents.

Conclusions:

  • DNA-PK is a multifaceted protein kinase with significant roles in DNA repair and other vital cellular processes.
  • Targeting DNA-PK presents a promising therapeutic strategy for various cancers.
Keywords:
DNA repairDNA-PKDNA-PKcsPRKDCchemotherapeutic target

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