How Do Defects in DNA Repair Mechanisms Lead to Cancer?
Mutations in genes responsible for DNA repair can lead to genomic instability, a hallmark of cancer. For example, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which play a role in homologous recombination, significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Similarly, defects in the MMR system are linked to Lynch Syndrome, a hereditary condition that elevates the risk of colorectal cancer.
