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Cigarette Smoke Damage Depends on DNA Structure and Repair Ability, Study Finds
A groundbreaking study has unveiled how the organization and chemical modifications of DNA influence the risk of smoking-related cancer. Researchers have found that DNA regions that are more open and active are more vulnerable to damage from cigarette smoke but also exhibit a better ability to repair themselves, thereby reducing the likelihood of mutations that can lead to cancer.
The study, published in Nucleic Acids Research, was conducted by a team from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, led by Prof. Sheera Adar and her graduate student Elisheva Heilbrun-Katz. Collaborating with Prof. Raluca Gordan from Duke University and the University of Massachusetts, the researchers mapped the damage caused by cigarette smoke and examined how the body repairs it.
Key Findings of the Study:
- DNA’s environment matters: Regions of DNA that are more open and active are more susceptible to damage but also exhibit improved repair mechanisms.
- Transcription factors play a dual role: Proteins regulating gene activity can either protect DNA from damage or make it more vulnerable.
- Efficient repair is crucial: Even in areas experiencing significant damage, effective DNA repair mechanisms can prevent the accumulation of harmful mutations.
The study specifically focused on benzo[a]pyrene, a toxic chemical in cigarette smoke. When metabolized in the body, it forms Benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide (BPDE), a compound that binds to DNA, disrupts its function, and causes cellular damage. Using advanced genomic tools, the researchers demonstrated that the body’s ability to repair DNA damage is more critical than the initial amount of damage in determining whether mutations will form.
Implications for Cancer Prevention and Treatment
These findings provide new insights into how smoking-related lung cancer develops and emphasize the importance of enhancing DNA repair mechanisms as a potential strategy for cancer prevention. Understanding the role of DNA’s environment in mutagenesis could lead to improved therapeutic approaches for individuals at high risk of developing lung cancer due to smoking.
For more details, refer to the original study: Elisheva E. Heilbrun et al., The Epigenetic Landscape Shapes Smoking-Induced Mutagenesis by Modulating DNA Damage Susceptibility and Repair Efficiency, Nucleic Acids Research (2025). DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaf048
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Smoking poses severe health risks, and individuals concerned about their health should consult medical professionals for guidance on smoking cessation and cancer prevention.
