Detector of DNA damage: Structure of a repair factor revealed

Sun 15th Jul, 2012

There are various types of damage to DNA, and DNA strand breaks are one of them, involving a cut in one or both DNA strands. Double-strand breaks in cellular DNA are especially dangerous and can trigger tumorigenesis, the process involved in the production of a new tumor or tumors.


Researchers from The Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) have now determined the structure of a protein involved in the repair and signaling of DNA double-strand breaks. The work throws new light on the origins of neurodegenerative diseases and certain tumor types.


Agents such as radiation or environmental toxins can cause double-stranded breaks in genomic DNA, which facilitate the development of tumors or the neurodegenerative disorders ataxia telangiectasia (AT) and AT-like disease (ATLD). Hence efficient repair mechanisms are essential for cell survival and function. The so-called MRN complex is an important component of one such system, and its structure has just been elucidated by a team led by Professor Karl-Peter Hopfner of LMU's Gene Center.


The Risks of Medication Combinations During Heatwaves

As summer unfolds, Germany is experiencing increasing heatwaves, defined by the German Weather Service (DWD) as periods of three consecutive days ranking among the hottest 2% of recorded days for that...

Patient Safety Advocates Warn of Potential Shortages

Amid ongoing international trade disputes, there are rising concerns about the impact on patient safety and the availability of essential medical products. Advocates for patient safety have called for...

Improved Delivery Guidance Through Cerebroplacental Ratio Amid Reduced Fetal Movement

Recent research highlights the effectiveness of incorporating an additional ultrasound measurement known as the cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) to enhance delivery decision-making for pregnant women...

State Anti-Bullying Laws Reduce Suicide Attempts Among Teens

Research indicates that state-level anti-bullying laws (ABLs) significantly decrease suicide attempts among overweight and obese high school students in the United States. A recent study reveals that...

Proximity to Oil and Gas Wells Linked to Increased Childhood Leukemia Risk

Recent studies indicate that children residing near oil and gas extraction sites may experience a heightened risk of developing acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), a rare but serious form of cancer....

Concerns Raised Over FDA-Approved Metric for Rectal Cancer Drug Efficacy

A recent investigation led by researchers at Tulane University has questioned the reliability of a key measure used in the evaluation of rectal cancer treatments. This metric, known as pathologic...

More Quick Read Articles »
German PKV Insurance

German Private Health Insurance

Health Insurance in Germany is compulsory and sometimes complicated, not to mention expensive. As an expat, you are required to navigate this landscape within weeks of arriving, so check our FAQ on PKV. For our guide on resources and access to agents who can give you a competitive quote, try our PKV Cost comparison tool.

Hospitals

Hospital and Clinic Directory

Germany is famous for its medical expertise and extensive number of hospitals and clinics. See this comprehensive directory of hospitals and clinics across the country, complete with links to their websites, addresses, contact info, and specializations/services.

Events

Upcoming Events

Gärtnerplatz Open-Air: Programm, Termin und aktuelle Infos

One of the most beautiful squares transforms into a summer stage every year for two days. The Gärtnerplatz Open-Air features a free music and cultural program across three stages, as well as street food from local vendors. On Saturday, the main stage at Gärtnerplatz offers something for everyone,...