RAP80 suppresses the vulnerability of R-loops during DNA double-strand break repair

Takaaki Yasuhara, Reona Kato, Motohiro Yamauchi, Yuki Uchihara, Lee Zou, Kiyoshi Miyagawa, Atsushi Shibata

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) arising as an intermediate of cellular processes on DNA is a potential vulnerability of the genome unless it is appropriately protected. Recent evidence suggests that R-loops, consisting of ssDNA and DNA-RNA hybrids, can form in the proximity of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) within transcriptionally active regions. However, how the vulnerability of ssDNA in R-loops is overcome during DSB repair remains unclear. Here, we identify RAP80 as a factor suppressing the vulnerability of ssDNA in R-loops, chromosome translocations, and deletions during DSB repair. Mechanistically, RAP80 prevents unscheduled nucleolytic processing of ssDNA in R-loops by CtIP. This mechanism promotes efficient DSB repair via transcription-associated end joining dependent on BRCA1, Polθ, and LIG1/3. Thus, RAP80 suppresses the vulnerability of R-loops during DSB repair, thereby precluding genomic abnormalities in a critical component of the genome caused by deleterious R-loop processing.

Original languageEnglish
Article number110335
JournalCell Reports
Volume38
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022 Feb 1
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Double-strand break
  • R-loop
  • RAP80
  • Transcription-associated DSB repair

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology(all)

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