Targeting DNA Repair for Precision Radiotherapy – Balancing the Therapeutic Ratio

Genomic instability is underpinned by defects in the DNA damage response (DDR) and DNA repair pathways. Subsequent clonal selection and adaption can lead to a mutator phenotype and tumour aggression. Importantly, tumour cell sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy can depend highly on the cellular capacity to repair DNA damage within and between tumour types. Annotation of functional defects in DDR and DNA repair function may allow for the development of novel prognostic biomarkers. This information could also be used to predict therapeutic response, including predicting responses following inhibition of DNA repair.
Source: Current Problems in Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research