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Updated: Oct 25, 2025
Detection and Visualization of DNA Damage-induced Protein Complexes in Suspension Cell Cultures Using the Proximity Ligation Assay
Published on: June 9, 2017
Proteins from the DNA Damage Response: Regulation, Dysfunction, and Anticancer Strategies
Caroline Molinaro1, Alain Martoriati1, Katia Cailliau1
1Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR 8576-UGSF-Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, F-59000 Lille, France.
Abstract:
Cells respond to genotoxic stress through a series of complex protein pathways called DNA damage response (DDR). These monitoring mechanisms ensure the maintenance and the transfer of a correct genome to daughter cells through a selection of DNA repair, cell cycle regulation, and programmed cell death processes. Canonical or non-canonical DDRs are highly organized and controlled to play crucial roles in genome stability and diversity. When altered or mutated, the proteins in these complex networks lead to many diseases that share common features, and to tumor formation. In recent years, technological advances have made it possible to benefit from the principles and mechanisms of DDR to target and eliminate cancer cells. These new types of treatments are adapted to the different types of tumor sensitivity and could benefit from a combination of therapies to ensure maximal efficiency.
Insights
Cells utilize DNA damage response (DDR) pathways to maintain genome integrity. Targeting these DDR mechanisms offers promising new strategies for cancer therapy and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Cells possess intricate DNA damage response (DDR) pathways to manage genotoxic stress.
- These pathways are vital for genome maintenance, cell cycle control, and programmed cell death, ensuring genetic stability.
- Dysfunctional DDR pathways are implicated in various diseases, including cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of DNA damage response (DDR) pathways in maintaining genome stability.
- To investigate the potential of leveraging DDR mechanisms for targeted cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- The study reviews the fundamental principles and mechanisms of DNA damage response (DDR) pathways.
- It examines the implications of DDR alterations in disease pathogenesis and cancer formation.
- Technological advancements enabling the application of DDR principles in cancer treatment are discussed.
Main Results:
- DNA damage response (DDR) pathways are crucial for genome stability and diversity.
- Mutations in DDR proteins can lead to diseases and tumor formation.
- New therapeutic strategies targeting cancer cells by exploiting DDR mechanisms are emerging.
Conclusions:
- DNA damage response (DDR) pathways are essential for cellular health and preventing diseases like cancer.
- Targeting DDR pathways represents a promising frontier in cancer treatment, with potential for combination therapies to maximize efficacy.
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