What if there were cures
Scientists Just Discovered an RNA That Repairs DNA Damage – And It’s a Game-Changer
Our DNA is constantly under threat — from cell division errors to external factors like sunlight and smoking. Fortunately, cells have intricate repair mechanisms to counteract this damage.
Scientists have uncovered a surprising role played by long non-coding RNA, particularly NEAT1, in stabilizing the genome. Their findings suggest that NEAT1, when highly methylated, helps the cell recognize and repair broken DNA strands more efficiently. This discovery could pave the way for new cancer treatments targeting tumors with high NEAT1 expression.
Genome Instability and Disease Risk
Every time a cell divides, its DNA is at risk of damage. To complete division, the cell must copy its entire genetic code — billions of letters long — which can lead to occasional errors. But cell division isn’t the only threat. Over time, exposure to factors like sunlight, alcohol, and cigarette smoke can also harm DNA, increasing the risk of cancer and other diseases.
Fortunately, cells have built-in repair systems to counteract this damage. This process, known as the DNA damage response (DDR), activates specific signaling pathways that detect and fix errors. These mechanisms help maintain genetic stability and ensure the cell’s survival.
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