DNASchäden

DNASchäden, or DNA damage, refers to alterations in the chemical structure of DNA. These changes can occur spontaneously during normal cellular processes or be induced by external agents. Spontaneous damage arises from errors during DNA replication, deamination, or oxidation. Environmental factors, known as mutagens, can also cause DNA damage. These include physical agents like ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight and ionizing radiation from sources like X-rays. Chemical agents encompass a wide range of substances, including certain components of tobacco smoke, industrial pollutants, and some chemotherapeutic drugs.

DNA damage can manifest in various forms, such as base modifications, base loss, single-strand breaks, and double-strand breaks. If left unrepaired, DNA damage can lead to mutations, which are permanent changes in the DNA sequence. Mutations can disrupt gene function, leading to a variety of consequences for the cell and the organism. In many cases, these mutations can contribute to the development of diseases, most notably cancer. However, cells possess sophisticated DNA repair mechanisms that can detect and correct most types of DNA damage. These repair pathways are crucial for maintaining genomic integrity and preventing disease. When these repair systems fail or are overwhelmed, the accumulation of unrepaired DNA damage can have severe health implications.