Single-stranded DNA-binding proteins at healthy and diseased telomeres

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Telomeres, G-/C-rich repetitive DNA sequences, pose challenges to DNA replication, leading to replication stress.
• Single-stranded DNA-binding proteins (SSBPs) are essential for telomere maintenance, protecting structures and managing replication stress within replisomes and the shelterin complex.
• Dysfunctional SSBPs are linked to telomere length abnormalities, telomeropathies, and cancer development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on the roles and coordination of SSBPs during telomere replication and elongation.
• To present advances in understanding ssDNA-binding factors and their regulators in alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT).
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting SSBPs in ALT cancers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent findings on SSBPs in telomere replication.
• Review of recent advances in ssDNA-binding factors and regulators in ALT.
• Analysis of therapeutic implications for ALT cancers.

Main Results:

• SSBPs play critical roles in maintaining telomere homeostasis and managing replication stress.
• Mutations in SSBPs impact telomere length, cause telomeropathies, and drive cancer.
• Recent advances illuminate the function of SSBPs and their regulators in ALT pathways.

Conclusions:

• SSBPs are vital for telomere replication and homeostasis.
• Targeting SSBPs and their regulators in ALT pathways presents a promising therapeutic strategy for ALT cancers.