A mechanism for DNA-PK activation requiring unique contributions from each strand of a DNA terminus and implications for microhomology-mediated nonhomologous DNA end joining

CRISPR-Cas9-mediated homology-directed repair for precise gene editing

CRISPR-Cas9-mediated homology-directed repair (HDR) is a versatile platform for creating precise site-specific DNA insertions, deletions, and substitutions. These precise edits are made possible through the use of exogenous donor templates that carry the desired sequence. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated HDR can be widely used to study protein functions, disease modeling, and gene therapy. However, HDR is limited by its low efficiency, especially in postmitotic cells. Here, we review CRISPR-Cas9-mediated HDR, with a focus on methodologies for boosting HDR efficiency, and applications of precise editing via HDR. First, we describe two common mechanisms of DNA repair, non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), and HDR, and discuss their impact on CRISPR-Cas9-mediated precise genome editing. Second, we discuss approaches for improving HDR efficiency through inhibition of the NHEJ pathway, activation of the HDR pathway, modification of donor templates, and delivery of Cas9/sgRNA reagents. Third, we summarize the applications of HDR for protein labeling in functional studies, disease modeling, and ex vivo and in vivo gene therapies. Finally, we discuss alternative precise editing platforms and their limitations, and describe potential avenues to improving CRISPR-Cas9-mediated HDR efficiency and fidelity in future research.

Polymorphisms of DNA Repair Genes in Thyroid Cancer

The incidence of thyroid cancer, one of the most common forms of endocrine cancer, is increasing rapidly worldwide in developed and developing countries. Various risk factors can increase susceptibility to thyroid cancer, but particular emphasis is put on the role of DNA repair genes, which have a significant impact on genome stability. Polymorphisms of these genes can increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer by affecting their function. In this article, we present a concise review on the most common polymorphisms of selected DNA repair genes that may influence the risk of thyroid cancer. We point out significant differences in the frequency of these polymorphisms between various populations and their potential relationship with susceptibility to the disease. A more complete understanding of these differences may lead to the development of effective prevention strategies and targeted therapies for thyroid cancer. Simultaneously, there is a need for further research on the role of polymorphisms of previously uninvestigated DNA repair genes in the context of thyroid cancer, which may contribute to filling the knowledge gaps on this subject.

Advance trends in targeting homology-directed repair for accurate gene editing: An inclusive review of small molecules and modified CRISPR-Cas9 systems

Introduction: Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat and its associated protein (CRISPR-Cas)-based technologies generate targeted modifications in host genome by inducing site-specific double-strand breaks (DSBs) that can serve as a substrate for homology-directed repair (HDR) in both in vitro and in vivo models. HDR pathway could enhance incorporation of exogenous DNA templates into the CRISPR-Cas9-mediated DSB site. Owing to low rate of HDR pathway, the efficiency of accurate genome editing is diminished. Enhancing the efficiency of HDR can provide fast, easy, and accurate technologies based on CRISPR-Cas9 technologies.

Methods: The current study presents an overview of attempts conducted on the precise genome editing strategies based on small molecules and modified CRISPR-Cas9 systems.

Results: In order to increase HDR rate in targeted cells, several logical strategies have been introduced such as generating CRISPR effector chimeric proteins, anti-CRISPR proteins, modified Cas9 with donor template, and using validated synthetic or natural small molecules for either inhibiting non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), stimulating HDR, or synchronizing cell cycle. Recently, high-throughput screening methods have been applied for identification of small molecules which along with the CRISPR system can regulate precise genome editing through HDR.

Conclusion: The stimulation of HDR components or inhibiting NHEJ can increase the accuracy of CRISPR-Cas-mediated engineering systems. Generating chimeric programmable endonucleases provide this opportunity to direct DNA template close proximity of CRISPR-Cas-mediated DSB. Small molecules and their derivatives can also proficiently block or activate certain DNA repair pathways and bring up novel perspectives for increasing HDR efficiency, especially in human cells. Further, high throughput screening of small molecule libraries could result in more discoveries of promising chemicals that improve HDR efficiency and CRISPR-Cas9 systems.

Recent Advances in the Development of Non-PIKKs Targeting Small Molecule Inhibitors of DNA Double-Strand Break Repair

The vast majority of cancer patients receive DNA-damaging drugs or ionizing radiation (IR) during their course of treatment, yet the efficacy of these therapies is tempered by DNA repair and DNA damage response (DDR) pathways. Aberrations in DNA repair and the DDR are observed in many cancer subtypes and can promote de novo carcinogenesis, genomic instability, and ensuing resistance to current cancer therapy. Additionally, stalled or collapsed DNA replication forks present a unique challenge to the double-strand DNA break (DSB) repair system. Of the various inducible DNA lesions, DSBs are the most lethal and thus desirable in the setting of cancer treatment. In mammalian cells, DSBs are typically repaired by the error prone non-homologous end joining pathway (NHEJ) or the high-fidelity homology directed repair (HDR) pathway. Targeting DSB repair pathways using small molecular inhibitors offers a promising mechanism to synergize DNA-damaging drugs and IR while selective inhibition of the NHEJ pathway can induce synthetic lethality in HDR-deficient cancer subtypes. Selective inhibitors of the NHEJ pathway and alternative DSB-repair pathways may also see future use in precision genome editing to direct repair of resulting DSBs created by the HDR pathway. In this review, we highlight the recent advances in the development of inhibitors of the non-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-related kinases (non-PIKKs) members of the NHEJ, HDR and minor backup SSA and alt-NHEJ DSB-repair pathways. The inhibitors described within this review target the non-PIKKs mediators of DSB repair including Ku70/80, Artemis, DNA Ligase IV, XRCC4, MRN complex, RPA, RAD51, RAD52, ERCC1-XPF, helicases, and DNA polymerase θ. While the DDR PIKKs remain intensely pursued as therapeutic targets, small molecule inhibition of non-PIKKs represents an emerging opportunity in drug discovery that offers considerable potential to impact cancer treatment.

Cryo-EM of NHEJ supercomplexes provides insights into DNA repair

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is one of two critical mechanisms utilized in humans to repair DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Unrepaired or incorrect repair of DSBs can lead to apoptosis or cancer. NHEJ involves several proteins, including the Ku70/80 heterodimer, DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), X-ray cross-complementing protein 4 (XRCC4), XRCC4-like factor (XLF), and ligase IV. These core proteins bind DSBs and ligate the damaged DNA ends. However, details of the structural assembly of these proteins remain unclear. Here, we present cryo-EM structures of NHEJ supercomplexes that are composed of these core proteins and DNA, revealing the detailed structural architecture of this assembly. We describe monomeric and dimeric forms of this supercomplex and also propose the existence of alternate dimeric forms of long-range synaptic complexes. Finally, we show that mutational disruption of several structural features within these NHEJ complexes negatively affects DNA repair.

X-ray scattering reveals disordered linkers and dynamic interfaces in complexes and mechanisms for DNA double-strand break repair impacting cell and cancer biology

Evolutionary selection ensures specificity and efficiency in dynamic metastable macromolecular machines that repair DNA damage without releasing toxic and mutagenic intermediates. Here we examine non‐homologous end joining (NHEJ) as the primary conserved DNA double‐strand break (DSB) repair process in human cells. NHEJ has exemplary key roles in networks determining the development, outcome of cancer treatments by DSB‐inducing agents, generation of antibody and T‐cell receptor diversity, and innate immune response for RNA viruses. We determine mechanistic insights into NHEJ structural biochemistry focusing upon advanced small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) results combined with X‐ray crystallography (MX) and cryo‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM). SAXS coupled to atomic structures enables integrated structural biology for objective quantitative assessment of conformational ensembles and assemblies in solution, intra‐molecular distances, structural similarity, functional disorder, conformational switching, and flexibility. Importantly, NHEJ complexes in solution undergo larger allosteric transitions than seen in their cryo‐EM or MX structures. In the long‐range synaptic complex, X‐ray repair cross‐complementing 4 (XRCC4) plus XRCC4‐like‐factor (XLF) form a flexible bridge and linchpin for DNA ends bound to KU heterodimer (Ku70/80) and DNA‐PKcs (DNA‐dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit). Upon binding two DNA ends, auto‐phosphorylation opens DNA‐PKcs dimer licensing NHEJ via concerted conformational transformations of XLF‐XRCC4, XLF–Ku80, and LigIV^BRCT–Ku70 interfaces. Integrated structures reveal multifunctional roles for disordered linkers and modular dynamic interfaces promoting DSB end processing and alignment into the short‐range complex for ligation by LigIV. Integrated findings define dynamic assemblies fundamental to designing separation‐of‐function mutants and allosteric inhibitors targeting conformational transitions in multifunctional complexes.

Discovery and development of novel DNA-PK inhibitors by targeting the unique Ku-DNA interaction

DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) plays a critical role in the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) repair pathway and the DNA damage response (DDR). DNA-PK has therefore been pursued for the development of anti-cancer therapeutics in combination with ionizing radiation (IR). We report the discovery of a new class of DNA-PK inhibitors that act via a novel mechanism of action, inhibition of the Ku-DNA interaction. We have developed a series of highly potent and specific Ku-DNA binding inhibitors (Ku-DBi's) that block the Ku-DNA interaction and inhibit DNA-PK kinase activity. Ku-DBi's directly interact with the Ku and inhibit in vitro NHEJ, cellular NHEJ, and potentiate the cellular activity of radiomimetic agents and IR. Analysis of Ku-null cells demonstrates that Ku-DBi's cellular activity is a direct result of Ku inhibition, as Ku-null cells are insensitive to Ku-DBi's. The utility of Ku-DBi's was also revealed in a CRISPR gene-editing model where we demonstrate that the efficiency of gene insertion events was increased in cells pre-treated with Ku-DBi's, consistent with inhibition of NHEJ and activation of homologous recombination to facilitate gene insertion. These data demonstrate the discovery and application of new series of compounds that modulate DNA repair pathways via a unique mechanism of action.

Activation of DNA-PK by hairpinned DNA ends reveals a stepwise mechanism of kinase activation

As its name implies, the DNA dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) requires DNA double-stranded ends for enzymatic activation. Here, I demonstrate that hairpinned DNA ends are ineffective for activating the kinase toward many of its well-studied substrates (p53, XRCC4, XLF, HSP90). However, hairpinned DNA ends robustly stimulate certain DNA-PK autophosphorylations. Specifically, autophosphorylation sites within the ABCDE cluster are robustly phosphorylated when DNA-PK is activated by hairpinned DNA ends. Of note, phosphorylation of the ABCDE sites is requisite for activation of the Artemis nuclease that associates with DNA-PK to mediate hairpin opening. This finding suggests a multi-step mechanism of kinase activation. Finally, I find that all non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) defective cells (whether deficient in components of the DNA-PK complex or components of the ligase complex) are similarly deficient in joining DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs) with hairpinned termini.

Modulating DNA Repair Pathways to Improve Precision Genome Engineering

Programmable nucleases like the popular CRISPR/Cas9 system allow for precision genome engineering by inducing a site-specific DNA double strand break (DSB) within a genome. The DSB is repaired by endogenous DNA repair pathways, either nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) or homology directed repair (HDR). The predominant and error-prone NHEJ pathway often results in small nucleotide insertions or deletions that can be used to construct knockout alleles. Alternatively, HDR activity can result in precise modification incorporating exogenous DNA fragments into the cut site. However, genetic recombination in mammalian systems through the HDR pathway is an inefficient process and requires cumbersome laboratory methods to identify the desired accurate insertion events. This is further compromised by the activity of the competing DNA repair pathway, NHEJ, which repairs the majority of nuclease induced DNA DSBs and also is responsible for mutagenic insertion and deletion events at off-target locations throughout the genome. Various methodologies have been developed to increase the efficiency of designer nuclease-based HDR mediated gene editing. Here, we review these advances toward modulating the activities of the two critical DNA repair pathways, HDR and NHEJ, to enhance precision genome engineering.

Cryo-EM structure of human DNA-PK holoenzyme

DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) is a serine/threonine protein kinase complex composed of a catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) and KU70/80 heterodimer bound to DNA. DNA-PK holoenzyme plays a critical role in non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), the major DNA repair pathway. Here, we determined cryo-electron microscopy structure of human DNA-PK holoenzyme at 6.6 Å resolution. In the complex structure, DNA-PKcs, KU70, KU80 and DNA duplex form a 650-kDa heterotetramer with 1:1:1:1 stoichiometry. The N-terminal α-solenoid (∼2 800 residues) of DNA-PKcs adopts a double-ring fold and connects the catalytic core domain of DNA-PKcs and KU70/80-DNA. DNA-PKcs and KU70/80 together form a DNA-binding tunnel, which cradles ∼30-bp DNA and prevents sliding inward of DNA-PKcs along with DNA duplex, suggesting a mechanism by which the broken DNA end is protected from unnecessary processing. Structural and biochemical analyses indicate that KU70/80 and DNA coordinately induce conformational changes of DNA-PKcs and allosterically stimulate its kinase activity. We propose a model for activation of DNA-PKcs in which allosteric signals are generated upon DNA-PK holoenzyme formation and transmitted to the kinase domain through N-terminal HEAT repeats and FAT domain of DNA-PKcs. Our studies suggest a mechanism for recognition and protection of broken DNA ends and provide a structural basis for understanding the activation of DNA-PKcs and DNA-PK-mediated NHEJ pathway.

DNA requirements for interaction of the C-terminal region of Ku80 with the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs)

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is the major pathway for the repair of ionizing radiation induced DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) in human cells. Critical to NHEJ is the DNA-dependent interaction of the Ku70/80 heterodimer with the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) to form the DNA-PK holoenzyme. However, precisely how Ku recruits DNA-PKcs to DSBs ends to enhance its kinase activity has remained enigmatic, with contradictory findings reported in the literature. Here we address the role of the Ku80 C-terminal region (CTR) in the DNA-dependent interaction of Ku70/80 with DNA-PKcs using purified components and defined DNA structures. Our results show that the Ku80 CTR is required for interaction with DNA-PKcs on short segments of blunt ended 25bp dsDNA or 25bp dsDNA with a 15-base poly dA single stranded (ss) DNA extension, but this requirement is less stringent on longer dsDNA molecules (35bp blunt ended dsDNA) or 25bp duplex DNA with either a 15-base poly dT or poly dC ssDNA extension. Moreover, the DNA-PKcs-Ku complex preferentially forms on 25 bp DNA with a poly-pyrimidine ssDNA extension.Our work clarifies the role of the Ku80 CTR and dsDNA ends on the interaction of DNA-PKcs with Ku and provides key information to guide assembly and biology of NHEJ complexes.

Overhang polarity of chromosomal double-strand breaks impacts kinetics and fidelity of yeast non-homologous end joining

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is the main repair pathway for DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in cells with limited 5′ resection. To better understand how overhang polarity of chromosomal DSBs affects NHEJ, we made site-specific 5′-overhanging DSBs (5′ DSBs) in yeast using an optimized zinc finger nuclease at an efficiency that approached HO-induced 3′ DSB formation. When controlled for the extent of DSB formation, repair monitoring suggested that chromosomal 5′ DSBs were rejoined more efficiently than 3′ DSBs, consistent with a robust recruitment of NHEJ proteins to 5′ DSBs. Ligation-mediated qPCR revealed that Mre11-Rad50-Xrs2 rapidly modified 5′ DSBs and facilitated protection of 3′ DSBs, likely through recognition of overhang polarity by the Mre11 nuclease. Next-generation sequencing revealed that NHEJ at 5′ DSBs had a higher mutation frequency, and validated the differential requirement of Pol4 polymerase at 3′ and 5′ DSBs. The end processing enzyme Tdp1 did not impact joining fidelity at chromosomal 5′ DSBs as in previous plasmid studies, although Tdp1 was recruited to only 5′ DSBs in a Ku-independent manner. These results suggest distinct DSB handling based on overhang polarity that impacts NHEJ kinetics and fidelity through differential recruitment and action of DSB modifying enzymes.

Single-stranded DNA oligomers stimulate error-prone alternative repair of DNA double-strand breaks through hijacking Ku protein

In humans, DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are repaired by two mutually-exclusive mechanisms, homologous recombination or end-joining. Among end-joining mechanisms, the main process is classical non-homologous end-joining (C-NHEJ) which relies on Ku binding to DNA ends and DNA Ligase IV (Lig4)-mediated ligation. Mostly under Ku- or Lig4-defective conditions, an alternative end-joining process (A-EJ) can operate and exhibits a trend toward microhomology usage at the break junction. Homologous recombination relies on an initial MRN-dependent nucleolytic degradation of one strand at DNA ends. This process, named DNA resection generates 3' single-stranded tails necessary for homologous pairing with the sister chromatid. While it is believed from the current literature that the balance between joining and recombination processes at DSBs ends is mainly dependent on the initiation of resection, it has also been shown that MRN activity can generate short single-stranded DNA oligonucleotides (ssO) that may also be implicated in repair regulation. Here, we evaluate the effect of ssO on end-joining at DSB sites both in vitro and in cells. We report that under both conditions, ssO inhibit C-NHEJ through binding to Ku and favor repair by the Lig4-independent microhomology-mediated A-EJ process.

Preventing Damage Limitation: Targeting DNA-PKcs and DNA Double-Strand Break Repair Pathways for Ovarian Cancer Therapy

Platinum-based chemotherapy is the cornerstone of ovarian cancer treatment, and its efficacy is dependent on the generation of DNA damage, with subsequent induction of apoptosis. Inappropriate or aberrant activation of the DNA damage response network is associated with resistance to platinum, and defects in DNA repair pathways play critical roles in determining patient response to chemotherapy. In ovarian cancer, tumor cell defects in homologous recombination - a repair pathway activated in response to double-strand DNA breaks (DSB) - are most commonly associated with platinum-sensitive disease. However, despite initial sensitivity, the emergence of resistance is frequent. Here, we review strategies for directly interfering with DNA repair pathways, with particular focus on direct inhibition of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), another DSB repair pathway. DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) is a core component of NHEJ and it has shown considerable promise as a chemosensitization target in numerous cancer types, including ovarian cancer where it functions to promote platinum-induced survival signaling, via AKT activation. The development of pharmacological inhibitors of DNA-PKcs is on-going, and clinic-ready agents offer real hope to patients with chemoresistant disease.

Preventing Damage Limitation: Targeting DNA-PKcs and DNA Double-Strand Break Repair Pathways for Ovarian Cancer Therapy

Platinum-based chemotherapy is the cornerstone of ovarian cancer treatment, and its efficacy is dependent on the generation of DNA damage, with subsequent induction of apoptosis. Inappropriate or aberrant activation of the DNA damage response network is associated with resistance to platinum, and defects in DNA repair pathways play critical roles in determining patient response to chemotherapy. In ovarian cancer, tumor cell defects in homologous recombination - a repair pathway activated in response to double-strand DNA breaks (DSB) - are most commonly associated with platinum-sensitive disease. However, despite initial sensitivity, the emergence of resistance is frequent. Here, we review strategies for directly interfering with DNA repair pathways, with particular focus on direct inhibition of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), another DSB repair pathway. DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) is a core component of NHEJ and it has shown considerable promise as a chemosensitization target in numerous cancer types, including ovarian cancer where it functions to promote platinum-induced survival signaling, via AKT activation. The development of pharmacological inhibitors of DNA-PKcs is on-going, and clinic-ready agents offer real hope to patients with chemoresistant disease.

Preventing Damage Limitation: Targeting DNA-PKcs and DNA Double-Strand Break Repair Pathways for Ovarian Cancer Therapy

Platinum-based chemotherapy is the cornerstone of ovarian cancer treatment, and its efficacy is dependent on the generation of DNA damage, with subsequent induction of apoptosis. Inappropriate or aberrant activation of the DNA damage response network is associated with resistance to platinum, and defects in DNA repair pathways play critical roles in determining patient response to chemotherapy. In ovarian cancer, tumor cell defects in homologous recombination – a repair pathway activated in response to double-strand DNA breaks (DSB) – are most commonly associated with platinum-sensitive disease. However, despite initial sensitivity, the emergence of resistance is frequent. Here, we review strategies for directly interfering with DNA repair pathways, with particular focus on direct inhibition of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), another DSB repair pathway. DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) is a core component of NHEJ and it has shown considerable promise as a chemosensitization target in numerous cancer types, including ovarian cancer where it functions to promote platinum-induced survival signaling, via AKT activation. The development of pharmacological inhibitors of DNA-PKcs is on-going, and clinic-ready agents offer real hope to patients with chemoresistant disease.

Recognition of DNA Termini by the C-Terminal Region of the Ku80 and the DNA-Dependent Protein Kinase Catalytic Subunit

DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) can be generated by endogenous cellular processes or exogenous agents in mammalian cells. These breaks are highly variable with respect to DNA sequence and structure and all are recognized in some context by the DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK). DNA-PK is a critical component necessary for the recognition and repair of DSBs via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). Previously studies have shown that DNA-PK responds differentially to variations in DSB structure, but how DNA-PK senses differences in DNA substrate sequence and structure is unknown. Here we explore the enzymatic mechanisms by which DNA-PK is activated by various DNA substrates and provide evidence that the DNA-PK is differentially activated by DNA structural variations as a function of the C-terminal region of Ku80. Discrimination based on terminal DNA sequence variations, on the other hand, is independent of the Ku80 C-terminal interactions and likely results exclusively from DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit interactions with the DNA. We also show that sequence differences in DNA termini can drastically influence DNA repair through altered DNA-PK activation. These results indicate that even subtle differences in DNA substrates influence DNA-PK activation and ultimately the efficiency of DSB repair.

Structure of the herpes simplex virus 1 genome: manipulation of nicks and gaps can abrogate infectivity and alter the cellular DNA damage response

The herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) virion DNA contains nicks and gaps, and in this study a novel assay for estimating the size and number of gaps in virion DNA was developed. Consistent with previous reports, we estimate that there are approximately 15 gaps per genome, and we calculate the average gap length to be approximately 30 bases. Virion DNA was isolated and treated with DNA-modifying enzymes in order to fill in the gaps and modify the ends. Interestingly, filling in gaps, blunting the ends, or adding random sequences to the 3' ends of DNA, producing 3' flaps, did not impair the infectivity of treated DNA following transfection of Vero cells. On the other hand, the formation of 5' flaps in the DNA following treatment resulted in a dramatic reduction (95 to 100%) in infectivity. Virion DNA stimulated DNA-PKcs activity in transfected cells, and DNA with 5' flaps stimulated a higher level of DNA-PKcs activity than that observed in cells transfected with untreated virion DNA. The infectivity of 5'-flapped DNA was restored in cells that do not express DNA-PKcs and in cells cotransfected with the immediate early protein ICP0, which degrades DNA-PKcs. These results are consistent with previous reports that DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) and the nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) repair pathway are intrinsically antiviral and that ICP0 can counteract this effect. We suggest that HSV-1 DNA with 5' flaps may induce an antiviral state due to the induction of a DNA damage response, primarily mediated by NHEJ, that renders the HSV-1 genome less efficient for lytic infection.

IMPORTANCE

For productive lytic infection to occur, HSV-1 must counteract a variety of cellular intrinsic antiviral mechanisms, including the DNA damage response (DDR). DDR pathways have been associated with silencing of gene expression, cell cycle arrest, and induction of apoptosis. In addition, the fate of viral genomes is likely to play a role in whether viral genomes adopt a configuration suitable for lytic DNA replication. This study demonstrates that virion DNA activates the cellular DDR kinase, DNA-PK, and that this response is inhibitory to viral infection. Furthermore, we show that HSV-1 ubiquitin ligase, ICP0, plays an important role in counteracting the negative effects of DNA-PK activation. These findings support the notion that DNA-PK is antiviral and suggest that the fate of incoming viral DNA has important consequences for the progression of lytic infection. This study underscores the complex evolutionary relationships between HSV and its host.

The role of Ile3434Thr XRCC7 gene polymorphism in differentiated thyroid cancer risk in an Iranian population

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to understand any association between differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) and Ile3434Thr XRCC7 gene polymorphism (GenBank accession number: rs7830743). DTC is the most prevalent thyroid neoplasm, which includes papillary and follicular cell carcinoma. XRCC7 gene encodes a protein that functions in non-homologous end joining DNA repair pathway. Non-synonymous polymorphisms in this gene may alter DNA repair capacity of the cell and change the risk of developing cancers.

METHODS

DTC patients (n = 173) and cancer free individuals (n = 204) were enrolled in a case-control study. The Ile3434Thr polymorphic alleles were discriminated by using amplification refractory mutation system-PCR method. The frequencies of this single nucleotide polymorphism in case and control groups were compared. Also, risk ratio for developing DTC in dichotomized genotypes was estimated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Dichotomized genotypes into those with and without the 3434Thr allele showed that this allele was associated with DTC (OR [odd ratio]: 1.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.29-2.79, P<0.001). Also, TC genotype was significantly associated with increased risk of DTC (OR: 2.42, 95% CI = 1.55-3.81, P = 0.0001) in individuals carrying this genotype.

CONCLUSION

Allele 3434Thr in XRCC7 gene might be associated with differentiated thyroid cancer risk. Further studies with larger samples are needed to verify these initial findings.

Repair of double-strand breaks by end joining

Nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) refers to a set of genome maintenance pathways in which two DNA double-strand break (DSB) ends are (re)joined by apposition, processing, and ligation without the use of extended homology to guide repair. Canonical NHEJ (c-NHEJ) is a well-defined pathway with clear roles in protecting the integrity of chromosomes when DSBs arise. Recent advances have revealed much about the identity, structure, and function of c-NHEJ proteins, but many questions exist regarding their concerted action in the context of chromatin. Alternative NHEJ (alt-NHEJ) refers to more recently described mechanism(s) that repair DSBs in less-efficient backup reactions. There is great interest in defining alt-NHEJ more precisely, including its regulation relative to c-NHEJ, in light of evidence that alt-NHEJ can execute chromosome rearrangements. Progress toward these goals is reviewed.

Chemotherapy induced DNA damage response: convergence of drugs and pathways

Chemotherapeutics target rapidly dividing cancer cells by directly or indirectly inducing DNA damage. Upon recognizing DNA damage, cells initiate a variety of signaling pathways collectively referred to as the DNA damage response (DDR). Interestingly, the pathways used to elicit this response are as varied as the types of DNA damage induced. However, the activation of these various pathways has similar results including DNA repair, suppression of global general translation, cell cycle arrest and, ultimately, either cell survival or cell death. This review will focus on a series of chemotherapy-induced DNA lesions and highlight recent advances in our understanding of the DDR, the DNA repair pathways it activates and the cellular consequences of these converging pathways.

Chemotherapy induced DNA damage response: convergence of drugs and pathways

Chemotherapeutics target rapidly dividing cancer cells by directly or indirectly inducing DNA damage. Upon recognizing DNA damage, cells initiate a variety of signaling pathways collectively referred to as the DNA damage response (DDR). Interestingly, the pathways used to elicit this response are as varied as the types of DNA damage induced. However, the activation of these various pathways has similar results including DNA repair, suppression of global general translation, cell cycle arrest and, ultimately, either cell survival or cell death. This review will focus on a series of chemotherapy-induced DNA lesions and highlight recent advances in our understanding of the DDR, the DNA repair pathways it activates and the cellular consequences of these converging pathways.

Integration of DNA damage and repair with murine double-minute 2 (Mdm2) in tumorigenesis

The alteration of tumorigenic pathways leading to cancer is a degenerative disease process typically involving inactivation of tumor suppressor proteins and hyperactivation of oncogenes. One such oncogenic protein product is the murine double-minute 2, or Mdm2. While, Mdm2 has been primarily associated as the negative regulator of the p53 tumor suppressor protein there are many p53-independent roles demonstrated for this oncogene. DNA damage and chemotherapeutic agents are known to activate Mdm2 and DNA repair pathways. There are five primary DNA repair pathways involved in the maintenance of genomic integrity: Nucleotide excision repair (NER), Base excision repair (BER), Mismatch repair (MMR), Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and homologous recombination (HR). In this review, we will briefly describe these pathways and also delineate the functional interaction of Mdm2 with multiple DNA repair proteins. We will illustrate the importance of these interactions with Mdm2 and discuss how this is important for tumor progression, cellular proliferation in cancer.

Coordination of DNA-PK activation and nuclease processing of DNA termini in NHEJ

DNA double-strand breaks (DSB), particularly those induced by ionizing radiation (IR), are complex lesions that can be cytotoxic if not properly repaired. IR-induced DSB often have DNA termini modifications, including thymine glycols, ring fragmentation, 3'-phosphoglycolates, 5'-hydroxyl groups, and abasic sites. Nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) is a major pathway responsible for the repair of these complex breaks. Proteins involved in NHEJ include the Ku 70/80 heterodimer, DNA-PKcs, processing proteins including Artemis and DNA polymerases μ and λ, XRCC4, DNA ligase IV, and XLF. We will discuss the role of the physical and functional interactions of DNA-PK as a result of activation, with an emphasis on DNA structure, chemistry, and sequence. With the diversity of IR induced DSB, it is becoming increasingly clear that multiple DNA processing enzymes are likely necessary for effective repair of a break. We will explore the roles of several important processing enzymes, with a focus on the nuclease Artemis and its role in processing diverse DSB. The effect of DNA termini on both DNA-PK and Artemis activity will be analyzed from a structural and biochemical view.

Purification and characterization of exonuclease-free Artemis: Implications for DNA-PK-dependent processing of DNA termini in NHEJ-catalyzed DSB repair

Artemis is a member of the beta-CASP family of nucleases in the metallo-beta-lactamase superfamily of hydrolases. Artemis has been demonstrated to be involved in V(D)J-recombination and in the NHEJ-catalyzed repair of DNA DSBs. In vitro, both DNA-PK independent 5'-3' exonuclease activities and DNA-PK dependent endonuclease activity have been attributed to Artemis, though mutational analysis of the Artemis active site only disrupts endonuclease activity. This suggests that either the enzyme contains two different active sites, or the exonuclease activity is not intrinsic to the Artemis polypeptide. To distinguish between these possibilities, we sought to determine if it was possible to biochemically separate Artemis endonuclease activity from exonuclease activity. Recombinant [His](6)-Artemis was expressed in a Baculovirus insect-cell expression system and isolated using a three-column purification methodology. Exonuclease and endonuclease activities, the ability to be phosphorylated by DNA-PK, and Artemis antibody reactivity was monitored throughout the purification and to characterize final pools of protein preparation. Results demonstrated the co-elution of exonuclease and endonuclease activities on a Ni-agarose affinity column but separation of the two enzymatic activities upon fractionation on a hydroxyapatite column. An exonuclease-free fraction of Artemis was obtained that retained DNA-PK dependent endonuclease activity, was phosphorylated by DNA-PK and reacted with an Artemis specific antibody. These data demonstrate that the exonuclease activity thought to be intrinsic to Artemis can be biochemically separated from the Artemis endonuclease.

The AZFc region of the Y chromosome: at the crossroads between genetic diversity and male infertility

BACKGROUND

The three azoospermia factor (AZF) regions of the Y chromosome represent genomic niches for spermatogenesis genes. Yet, the most distal region, AZFc, is a major generator of large-scale variation in the human genome. Determining to what extent this variability affects spermatogenesis is a highly contentious topic in human reproduction.

METHODS

In this review, an extensive characterization of the molecular mechanisms responsible for AZFc genotypical variation is undertaken. Such data are complemented with the assessment of the clinical consequences for male fertility imputable to the different AZFc variants. For this, a critical re-evaluation of 23 association studies was performed in order to extract unifying conclusions by curtailing methodological heterogeneities.

RESULTS

Intrachromosomal homologous recombination mechanisms, either crossover or non-crossover based, are the main drivers for AZFc genetic diversity. In particular, rearrangements affecting gene dosage are the most likely to introduce phenotypical disruptions in the spermatogenic profile. In the specific cases of partial AZFc deletions, both the actual existence and the severity of the spermatogenic defect are dependent on the evolutionary background of the Y chromosome.

CONCLUSIONS

AZFc is one of the most genetically dynamic regions in the human genome. This property may serve as counter against the genetic degeneracy associated with the lack of a meiotic partner. However, such strategy comes at a price: some rearrangements represent a risk factor or a de-facto causative agent of spermatogenic disruption. Interestingly, this precarious balance is modulated, among other yet unknown factors, by the evolutionary history of the Y chromosome.

Ku and DNA-dependent protein kinase dynamic conformations and assembly regulate DNA binding and the initial non-homologous end joining complex

DNA double strand break (DSB) repair by non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is initiated by DSB detection by Ku70/80 (Ku) and DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) recruitment, which promotes pathway progression through poorly defined mechanisms. Here, Ku and DNA-PKcs solution structures alone and in complex with DNA, defined by x-ray scattering, reveal major structural reorganizations that choreograph NHEJ initiation. The Ku80 C-terminal region forms a flexible arm that extends from the DNA-binding core to recruit and retain DNA-PKcs at DSBs. Furthermore, Ku- and DNA-promoted assembly of a DNA-PKcs dimer facilitates trans-autophosphorylation at the DSB. The resulting site-specific autophosphorylation induces a large conformational change that opens DNA-PKcs and promotes its release from DNA ends. These results show how protein and DNA interactions initiate large Ku and DNA-PKcs rearrangements to control DNA-PK biological functions as a macromolecular machine orchestrating assembly and disassembly of the initial NHEJ complex on DNA.

The pyridinylfuranopyrimidine inhibitor, PI-103, chemosensitizes glioblastoma cells for apoptosis by inhibiting DNA repair

The failure of conventional therapies in glioblastoma (GBM) is largely due to an aberrant activity of survival cascades, such as PI3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt-mediated signaling. This study is the first to show that the class I PI3K inhibitor, PI-103, enhances chemotherapy-induced cell death of GBM cells. Concurrent treatment with PI-103 and DNA-damaging drugs, in particular doxorubicin, significantly increases apoptosis and reduces colony formation compared with chemotherapy treatment alone. The underlying molecular mechanism for this chemosensitization was shown by two independent approaches, that is, pharmacological and genetic inhibition of PI3K, DNA-PK and mTOR, to involve inhibition of DNA-PK-mediated DNA repair. Accordingly, blockage of PI3K or DNA-PK, but not of mTOR, significantly delays the resolution of doxorubicin-induced DNA damage and concomitantly increases apoptosis. Importantly, not only are several GBM cell lines chemosensitized by PI-103 but also GBM stem cells. Clinical relevance was further confirmed by the use of primary cultured GBM cells, which also exhibit increased cell death and reduced colony formation on combined treatment with PI-103 and doxorubicin. By identifying class I PI3K inhibitors as powerful agents in enhancing the lethality of DNA-damaging drugs, to which GBMs are usually considered unresponsive, our findings have important implications for the design of rational combination regimens in overcoming the frequent chemoresistance of GBM.