X-ray-downregulated nucleophosmin induces abnormal polarization by anchoring to G-actin

Ionizing radiation poses significant risks to astronauts during deep space exploration. This study investigates the impact of radiation on nucleophosmin (NPM), a protein involved in DNA repair, cell cycle regulation, and proliferation. Using X-rays, a common space radiation, we found that radiation suppresses NPM expression. Knockdown of NPM increases DNA damage after irradiation, disrupts cell cycle distribution and enhances cellular radiosensitivity. Additionally, NPM interacts with globular actin (G-actin), affecting its translocation and centrosome binding during mitosis. These findings provide insights into the role of NPM in cellular processes in responding to radiation. This article enhances our comprehension of radiation-induced genomic instability and provides a foundational platform for prospective investigations within the realm of space radiation and its implications for cancer therapy.