XRCC6

XRCC6, also known as X-ray repair cross-complementing protein 6, is a protein encoded by the XRCC6 gene in humans. This protein is a core component of the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) DNA repair pathway, which is crucial for fixing double-strand breaks in DNA. XRCC6 is part of a complex called Ku, along with XRCC5. The Ku complex binds to the broken ends of DNA and recruits other repair proteins to facilitate the rejoining process. This pathway is vital for maintaining genomic stability and preventing mutations.

The XRCC6 protein contains several functional domains, including DNA-binding motifs that enable it to recognize and bind to damaged DNA sites. Its interaction with other proteins in the NHEJ pathway, such as DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) and ligase IV, is essential for efficient repair. Dysregulation or deficiency in XRCC6 function has been linked to various cellular processes and diseases. For instance, defects in DNA repair mechanisms, including NHEJ, can contribute to genomic instability, which is a hallmark of cancer. Research has also explored the role of XRCC6 in processes like V(D)J recombination, which is critical for the development of the adaptive immune system. Understanding the precise functions and interactions of XRCC6 is an ongoing area of molecular biology research.