DNA-dependent protein kinase in telomere maintenance and protection

Jiangdong Sui, Shichuan Zhang, Benjamin P.C. Chen

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

This review focuses on DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), which is the key regulator of canonical non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ), the predominant mechanism of DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair in mammals. DNA-PK consists of the DNA-binding Ku70/80 heterodimer and the catalytic subunit DNA-PKcs. They assemble at DNA ends, forming the active DNA-PK complex, which initiates NHEJ-mediated DSB repair. Paradoxically, both Ku and DNA-PKcs are associated with telomeres, and they play crucial roles in protecting the telomere against fusions. Herein, we discuss possible mechanisms and contributions of Ku and DNA-PKcs in telomere regulation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number2
JournalCellular and Molecular Biology Letters
Volume25
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 17 2020

Keywords

  • DNA-PK
  • Shelterin
  • Telomerase
  • Telomere
  • hnRNP-A1

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology

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