Jerusalem: A team of researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has uncovered how the structural and chemical modifications of DNA influence the risk of developing lung cancer due to smoking. The study, published in Nucleic Acids Research, sheds light on how tobacco smoke damages DNA and how the body's ability to repair this damage determines the likelihood of cancer-causing mutations.
The researchers focused on benzo(a)pyrene, a toxic compound in cigarette smoke that interacts with DNA upon entering the body. This interaction disrupts DNA function, leading to cellular damage, according to a report by Xinhua News Agency. Their findings reveal that DNA organization and chemical changes impact how smoking-induced damage occurs, how effectively cells repair this damage, and the extent of mutations that develop over time.
The study highlights that certain DNA regions, particularly those that are more open and biologically active, are more prone to damage. However, these regions also exhibit a higher capacity for self-repair, resulting in fewer mutations. In contrast, DNA segments that are less efficiently repaired may accumulate mutations over time, thereby increasing the risk of lung cancer.
Additionally, the research found that proteins responsible for regulating gene activity play a dual role in DNA protection. While some proteins help shield DNA from damage, others may inadvertently make it more susceptible to harm, the researchers noted. This underscores the complex relationship between genetic regulation and cancer risk.
The study emphasizes that the body’s ability to repair DNA damage is a more critical factor in determining mutation occurrence than the sheer extent of the damage itself. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of how smoking leads to lung cancer at a genetic level and may inform future prevention and treatment strategies.
Smokers face a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer, with lifetime odds up to 22 times greater than non-smokers. The findings of this study provide valuable knowledge that could guide the development of targeted interventions to reduce smoking-related cancer risks and improve early detection and treatment strategies.