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Lethal and Non-Lethal Functions of Caspases in the DNA Damage Response

Karla E Lopez1,2,3, Lisa Bouchier-Hayes1,2,3

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

Cells
|June 24, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Caspases, known for cell death, also regulate DNA damage response independently of apoptosis. This review explores their dual roles in genomic stability and cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cellular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Caspases are key regulators of apoptosis (programmed cell death).
  • The DNA damage response (DDR) prevents genomic instability by removing damaged cells.
  • Caspases are implicated in the DDR due to their role in cell removal.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the dual roles of caspases in the DNA damage response.
  • To highlight non-apoptotic functions of caspases in DNA damage.
  • To discuss the impact of caspases on genomic stability and cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on caspases and DNA damage response.
  • Analysis of research on caspase activity independent of apoptosis.
  • Synthesis of findings related to genomic stability and therapeutic implications.

Main Results:

  • Caspases play roles in the DDR beyond apoptosis.
  • Evidence shows caspases can influence DNA damage accumulation without causing cell death.
  • These non-apoptotic functions impact genomic stability.

Conclusions:

  • Caspases have critical non-apoptotic roles in the DNA damage response.
  • Understanding these roles is crucial for comprehending genomic stability.
  • Targeting caspases may offer new strategies for cancer treatment.
Keywords:
DNA damageapoptosiscaspasescell cyclegenomic instability

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