Flap Structure-Specific Endonuclease 1 (FEN1) is a crucial enzyme in DNA replication and repair processes. It is a member of the XPG/RAD2 endonuclease family and is essential for maintaining genomic stability. FEN1 is known for its ability to remove 5’ overhanging flaps in DNA, which are short sections of single-stranded DNA that “hang off” due to their nucleotide bases being prevented from binding to their complementary base pair . This enzyme plays a significant role in processing the 5’ ends of Okazaki fragments during lagging strand DNA synthesis .
FEN1’s primary function is to ensure the accurate and efficient replication of DNA. During DNA replication, the lagging strand is synthesized in short fragments known as Okazaki fragments. These fragments have 5’ overhanging flaps that need to be removed for the fragments to be joined together seamlessly. FEN1 recognizes and cleaves these flaps, allowing the DNA fragments to be properly ligated .
In addition to its role in DNA replication, FEN1 is also involved in DNA repair processes. It participates in long-patch base excision repair, where it interacts with AP endonuclease 1 to coordinate the loading of proteins onto the DNA substrate . This interaction ensures the efficient repair of damaged DNA and maintains genomic integrity.
FEN1 is overexpressed in various types of cancers, including breast, prostate, stomach, neuroblastomas, pancreatic, and lung cancers . Overexpression of FEN1 can lead to the activation of the microhomology-mediated end joining (MMEJ) pathway, an inaccurate DNA repair pathway that often results in mutations. This mutagenic pathway can contribute to the development and progression of cancer .
Recombinant human FEN1 is a laboratory-produced version of the enzyme, used for research and therapeutic purposes. It is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the FEN1 gene into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or yeast, to produce the enzyme in large quantities. This recombinant enzyme is used in various studies to understand its function, mechanism, and potential therapeutic applications .