Role of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) in maintaining genomic integrity

Sandeep Burma, Benjamin P C Chen, David J. Chen

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

319 Scopus citations

Abstract

Of the various types of DNA damage that can occur within the mammalian cell, the DNA double strand break (DSB) is perhaps the most dangerous. DSBs are typically induced by intrinsic sources such as the by products of cellular metabolism or by extrinsic sources such as X-rays or γ-rays and chemotherapeutic drugs. It is becoming increasing clear that an inability to respond properly to DSBs will lead to genomic instability and promote carcinogenesis. The mammalian cell, therefore, has in place several mechanisms that can respond rapidly to DSBs. In this review, we focus on the role of one such mechanism, the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway of DSB repair, in maintaining genome integrity and preventing carcinogenesis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1042-1048
Number of pages7
JournalDNA repair
Volume5
Issue number9-10
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 8 2006

Keywords

  • Carcinogenesis
  • DNA double-strand break (DSB) DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK)
  • Genomic instability
  • Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology

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