Homologous recombination is the exchange or copying of DNA information through pairing between molecules with related nucleotide sequences. Sequence correspondence directs a donor region toward the matching genomic target [1]. In double-strand-break repair, processing of DNA ends exposes single-stranded regions that assemble with recombination proteins, search for homology, and invade an intact duplex [2]. The paired donor provides a template for DNA synthesis, and subsequent processing restores a continuous DNA molecule. Availability of a suitable template and the state of the broken or stalled replication intermediate guide the cellular use of this pathway [3]. Cell-cycle regulation and end-processing activities coordinate homologous recombination with other repair processes. Resolution of the resulting intermediates can yield exchange of flanking DNA or localized transfer of sequence information [4][5].
DNA Repair Mechanisms·Molecular Biology·Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology·Life Sciences