Get the latest Science News and Discoveries

This DNA repair gene went rogue and exposed a cancer weakness


Scientists have discovered that a gene normally considered a DNA-protecting "good guy" can become dangerous when cells make too much of it. The gene, EXO1, acts like molecular scissors that help repair DNA, but when overproduced it starts cutting DNA it shouldn't, creating damage linked to cancer.

None

Get the Android app

Or read this on ScienceDaily

Read more on:

Photo of rogue

rogue

Photo of DNA repair gene

DNA repair gene

Photo of cancer weakness

cancer weakness

Related news:

News photo

No sun, no problem? How life could thrive on moons of starless 'rogue' planets

News photo

Scientists Just Clocked a ‘Rogue’ Planet the Size of Saturn

News photo

The brain's ability to form memories may rely on a 'chimera state', a strange physical state where some neurons sync up while others 'go rogue'