PARP

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP; EC 2.4.2.12) is found in the cell’s nucleus. The main role is to detect and signal single strand DNA breaks, preventing healthy cells from malfunctioning and programmed cell death. Cancer cells may also use PARP to repair DNA damage, thus extending their uncontrolled growth. Such cancers can become resistant to treatment (chemotherapy and/or radiation). PARP inhibitors may be especially helpful for the treatment of tumors due to genetic mutations of BRCA1 and BRCA2[1]. Human tankyrases, or TRF1-interacting ankyrin-related ADP-ribose polymerases, are specific PARPs that enhance telomerase access to telomeres, and post-translationally modify multiple proteins involved in processes including maintenance of telomere length, sister telomere association, and trafficking of glut4-containing vesicles[2],[3].