A protein has been discovered that is involved, among other things, in the repair of genetic damage, but also in the process of regulating gene expression that affects the production of other proteins, depending on the needs of each cell. According to research by the Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), it is now possible to regulate gene expression in humans, preventing and treating diseases associated with ageing and cancer.
The Athens News Agency (APE) announced a few days ago the new discovery of FORTH on the role of the protein HAB2, which is involved, among other things, in the repair of genetic damage. Specifically, over time we accumulate genetic damage that accelerates the aging process, increasing the likelihood of carcinogenesis.
DNA is constantly exposed to genotoxic agents that attack its fragile structure, interfering with the function of each cell. Cells deal with DNA damage by activating repair mechanisms that have the ability to restore DNA to its original form. Patients with mutations in genes involved in repair mechanisms age prematurely and show an increased incidence of carcinogenesis.
Mutations, in fact, in the gene that activates the production of XAB2 lead to stillbirth. The research also explains why mutations in the genes involved in repairing genetic damage lead to developmental abnormalities in humans.
This research, conducted by Dr. Evi Goulielmaki and Dr. Maria Tsecrekou, together with the head of the research team, Professor George Garini, from the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology of FORTH, from the Department of Biology of the University of Crete. Also participating were Nikos Batsiotos, Mariana Ascensão-Ferreira, Eleftheria Ledaki, Dr. Kalliopi Stratigi, Dr. Georgia Hadjinikolaou, Dr. Pantelis Topalis, Dr. Theodore Costeas, Dr. Janine Altmüller, Professor Jeroen A. Demmers and Professor Nuno L. Barbosa-Morais.
