Researchers at the University of Cologne have identified a protein complex known as DREAM, which hinders DNA repair in human, mouse, and nematode cells, contributing to aging and disease. They demonstrated that by inhibiting this complex using a pharmaceutical agent, the resilience of cells against DNA damage was significantly improved. This breakthrough suggests potential avenues for new treatments targeting aging and cancer, although additional research is necessary before developing therapies for human patients. Professor Dr. Björn Schumacher stated that suppressing the DREAM complex activates multiple DNA repair mechanisms, leading to enhanced cellular protection against genomic damage.
In their studies, the team found that the DREAM complex inhibits the production of repair mechanisms in body cells—contrasting with germ cells, which lack this complex and can generate abundant DNA repair activities. The research echoes the importance of DNA repair in safeguarding genetic information passed through generations. In mice treated with the DREAM inhibitor, retinal DNA repair was observed, preserving eye function. The study’s implications extend to space exploration, where radiation-induced DNA damage poses significant risks. Overall, targeting the DREAM complex could offer strategies to reduce cancer risk and combat age-related diseases by preserving genomic integrity.
