The human genome requires careful maintenance to ensure healthy cell function and prevent the accumulation of DNA damage. The study, led by scientists from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the UK Dementia Research Institute, took an innovative approach by testing nearly 1,000 strains of genetically modified mice to identify critical genes involved in genomic stability.
The results identified 145 genes that play protective or detrimental roles in DNA integrity. Knocking out one particular gene, DSCC1, caused a fivefold increase in DNA damage markers; This is reminiscent of features seen in cohesinopathies, a group of serious genetic diseases in humans. This finding highlights the direct relevance of the study to human health.
But the news doesn’t end there. The researchers also found a silver lining in the form of an inhibitor of the SIRT1 protein. Using CRISPR technology, they showed that blocking SIRT1 could partially reverse the deleterious effects caused by loss of DSCC1, offering promise for future treatments.
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Source: Ferra
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