What does "Base Excision Repair" mean?
Table of Contents
Base Excision Repair (BER) is a process that cells use to fix small problems in their DNA. These problems can be caused by things like damage from chemicals or errors that occur during DNA copying. When a single part of the DNA, called a base, is damaged, BER works to replace it with a correct one.
How It Works
Damage Recognition: The cell first finds the damaged base. Special proteins called enzymes help to detect this problem.
Removal: Once the damaged base is identified, another enzyme removes it from the DNA strand. This leaves a small gap where the base used to be.
Replacement: After the base is removed, the cell needs to fill in the gap. DNA polymerase, an enzyme that makes DNA, steps in to add the right base.
Sealing: Finally, another enzyme seals the gap, ensuring the DNA strand is complete and the information is accurate.
Importance
This repair system is crucial for maintaining the health of cells. If DNA damage is not fixed, it can lead to serious problems, including diseases like cancer. Base Excision Repair helps keep the DNA stable and functioning properly, which is essential for life.