DNA replication and cancer: From dysfunctional replication origin activities to therapeutic opportunities

Anne-Sophie Boyer, David Walter, Claus Storgaard Sørensen

    28 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    A dividing cell has to duplicate its DNA precisely once during the cell cycle to preserve genome integrity avoiding the accumulation of genetic aberrations that promote diseases such as cancer. A large number of endogenous impacts can challenge DNA replication and cells harbor a battery of pathways to promote genome integrity during DNA replication. This includes suppressing new replication origin firing, stabilization of replicating forks, and the safe restart of forks to prevent any loss of genetic information. Here, we describe mechanisms by which oncogenes can interfere with DNA replication thereby causing DNA replication stress and genome instability. Further, we describe cellular and systemic responses to these insults with a focus on DNA replication restart pathways. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic potential of exploiting intrinsic replicative stress in cancer cells for targeted therapy.

    Original languageEnglish
    JournalSeminars in Cancer Biology
    Volume37-38
    Pages (from-to)16-25
    Number of pages10
    ISSN1044-579X
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Jun 2016

    Keywords

    • Journal Article
    • Review

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'DNA replication and cancer: From dysfunctional replication origin activities to therapeutic opportunities'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this