RAD50
Description
The RAD50 gene plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of our DNA, acting as a key player in the intricate dance of DNA repair. It codes for a protein, also known as RAD50, which forms a complex with two other proteins, MRE11 and NBS1, creating the MRN complex. This complex functions as a sensor of DNA damage, initiating a cascade of events to repair broken or damaged DNA strands. Its primary function lies in recognizing DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), a particularly dangerous form of DNA damage that can lead to genomic instability and disease.
Associated Diseases
- Ataxia-telangiectasia-like disorder (ATLD)
- Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS)
- Fanconi anemia (FA)
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Leukemia
Did you know?
The RAD50 protein is aptly named after its role in "radiation" sensitivity. Cells with mutations in this gene are particularly susceptible to damage from ionizing radiation, such as X-rays.
