ATR coordinates the cellular response to DNA damage, both by sensing that damage has occurred, and helping to propagate the intracellular signal to fix it. But how ATR recognizes several disparate forms of DNA damage (ie., UV-induced cross-links, oxidative damage, and polymerase toxins) had remained elusive. Now, Dr. Karlene Cimprich and colleagues have identified how a single-stranded DNA structure can serve as a common intermediate to activate ATR in response to various forms of genotoxic stress. Emphasizing the importance of this finding, Dr. Cimprich explains that "Cells must properly detect and respond to DNA lesions, and this activity is critical for maintaining the integrity of the genome and the prevention of cancer."

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Contact: Heather Cosel
coselpie@cshl.edu
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
18-Apr-2005