Main steps in DNA double-strand break repair: an introduction to homologous recombination and related processes
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Date
2018-06
Publication Type
Review Article
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yes
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Abstract
DNA double-strand breaks arise accidentally upon exposure of DNA to radiation and chemicals or result from faulty DNA metabolic processes. DNA breaks can also be introduced in a programmed manner, such as during the maturation of the immune system, meiosis, or cancer chemo- or radiotherapy. Cells have developed a variety of repair pathways, which are fine-tuned to the specific needs of a cell. Accordingly, vegetative cells employ mechanisms that restore the integrity of broken DNA with the highest efficiency at the lowest cost of mutagenesis. In contrast, meiotic cells or developing lymphocytes exploit DNA breakage to generate diversity. Here, we review the main pathways of eukaryotic DNA double-strand break repair with the focus on homologous recombination and its various subpathways. We highlight the differences between homologous recombination and end-joining mechanisms including non-homologous end-joining and microhomology-mediated end-joining and offer insights into how these pathways are regulated. Finally, we introduce noncanonical functions of the recombination proteins, in particular during DNA replication stress.
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published
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Journal / series
Volume
127 (2)
Pages / Article No.
187 - 214
Publisher
Springer
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Subject
DNA double-strand break repair; DNA end resection; DNA strand exchange; End-joining; Homologous recombination; Meiosis; Replication stress
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Notes
It was possible to publish this article open access thanks to a Swiss National Licence with the publisher.