How Do Mutations in DNA Repair Genes Lead to Cancer?
Mutations in DNA repair genes can result in the loss of function of the repair pathways, leading to increased mutation rates and genomic instability. For instance, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes impair HR, leading to the accumulation of DSBs and increased cancer risk. Similarly, mutations in MMR genes can cause microsatellite instability, a hallmark of certain cancers.