DNA Damage and Repair: Its Effects on Our Health
DNA is one of the most basic building blocks that carry our body's genetic information. However, environmental factors, chemicals and natural metabolic processes can damage In this article, we will discuss the causes, consequences and repair mechanisms of DNA damage in detail.
Causes of DNA Damage
Our DNA can be damaged by various factors. The most important of these factors is radiation UV rays, X-rays and gamma rays can cause damage to the structure of DNA. Also, cigarette smoke and environmental toxins also have negative effects on our DNA. Chemicals can cause changes in the base structures of the DNA in our cells.
- Radiation: UV, X-rays, gamma rays
- chemicals: Cigarette smoke, toxic substances
- Viral Infections: Some viruses can bind to our DNA and disrupt the genetic structure.
- Metabolic Processes: Natural substances occurring in the body can cause errors during DNA copying.
DNA Repair Mechanisms
Our cells are programmed to properly maintain DNA. Therefore, they have developed genes that can recognize and repair damage to DNA. repair mechanisms This process allows cells to continue their lives in a healthy way.
Damage to DNA is recognized by special proteins. The damaged part, enzymes is cut and removed by means of a DNA strand. A new piece is then synthesized using the intact DNA template. This process is critical for maintaining the integrity of the DNA.
Problems That Occur When DNA Is Not Repaired
Failure to repair damage to DNA results in permanent damage to cells. mutations These mutations can occur in genes that control cell growth, proliferation and death. This can lead to serious health problems such as cancer.
In particular, disruption of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Additionally, when DNA repair is inadequate, neurological diseases, immune system problems and signs of aging may increase.
DNA Repair with CRISPR Technology
In recent years, DNA repair targeting CRISPR-Cas9 technology has been a great source of hope. This technology allows a specific gene to be targeted and cut out, a healthy gene to be added, or the functioning of the gene to be modified. This method is considered an important step in the treatment of genetic diseases.
Genetic Diseases and Treatment Approaches
DNA repair-oriented treatment approaches are particularly important for genetically based diseases. For example, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis ve Duchenne muscular dystrophy Diseases such as these show promising results with CRISPR and gene therapy.
Also, diseases related to aging such as Alzheimer's and SCID New treatment methods are also being developed for immune system diseases such as (Severe Combined Immunodeficiency).
Emerging Drugs and Gene Therapies
It is worth noting that today, drugs that target some DNA repair mechanisms are in clinical use. For example, PARP inhibitors It is used in cancer treatment and provides effective results by targeting cells with defective DNA repair.
Gene therapies have already successfully passed clinical trials for some rare diseases. For example, there are FDA-approved gene therapies for spinal muscular atrophy. Some CRISPR-based therapies are currently in early clinical trials.
Conclusion
DNA damage is a condition that can have serious effects on our health. However, advances and technologies in modern medicine provide great hope for repairing this damage and treating genetic diseases. Advances in science and health will allow us to live healthier lives in the future.
