Homologous recombination (HR) is a critical pathway for repairing DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which are among the most severe types of DNA damage. DSBs can be caused by various factors, including ionizing radiation, radiomimetic chemicals, and DNA replication inhibitors . The HR pathway ensures that the genetic information is accurately repaired by using a homologous sequence as a template, thereby preserving the genetic code.
The RAD51 family includes several proteins, such as RAD51, RAD51B, RAD51C, RAD51D, XRCC2, XRCC3, and DMC1 . These proteins are homologous to the bacterial RecA protein and are involved in the formation of nucleoprotein filaments on single-stranded DNA. These filaments are essential for the search for homology and strand pairing during HR.
RAD51B, in particular, is involved in the early stages of HR. It forms a complex with other RAD51 paralogs, such as RAD51C and XRCC3, to facilitate the repair process . RAD51B is essential for the maintenance of genome integrity, resistance to DNA-damaging agents, and gene targeting . It has been shown to play a significant role in both somatic and meiotic recombination, ensuring proper chromosomal disjunction during meiosis .
Mutations and variations in the RAD51B gene have been associated with various cancers, including hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome and prostate cancer . Additionally, enhancer variants of RAD51B have been linked to susceptibility and progression of glioma, a type of brain tumor . These variants can affect the expression of RAD51B and its ability to repair DNA, thereby influencing cancer risk and progression.
Research on RAD51B continues to be of great interest due to its critical role in DNA repair and its implications in cancer biology. Understanding the mechanisms by which RAD51B and its paralogs function can lead to the development of targeted therapies for cancer treatment. Recombinant RAD51B protein is often used in research to study these mechanisms and to develop potential therapeutic interventions.