Cellular double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) (dsDNA)

Cellular double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) is the fundamental molecule that stores and transmits genetic information within the nucleus and mitochondria of eukaryotic cells (Nature Education, 2014). It consists of two polynucleotide chains coiled around each other to form a double helix, stabilized by hydrogen bonds between complementary nitrogenous bases. As a therapeutic target, dsDNA is primarily exploited in cancer treatment through the use of cytotoxic agents that induce structural damage, such as alkylating agents, cross-linkers, and intercalators (National Cancer Institute, 2023). These interactions interfere with essential processes like DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell cycle arrest and programmed cell death (StatPearls, 2023). Additionally, dsDNA acts as a potent damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) when released into the cytosol, triggering innate immune responses via the cGAS-STING pathway (PubMed, 2020). In autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dsDNA is a major autoantigen, and the presence of anti-dsDNA antibodies is a hallmark diagnostic marker (Mayo Clinic, 2023). While effective, targeting dsDNA often lacks specificity for cancer cells, leading to significant side effects such as bone marrow suppression and the risk of secondary cancers (American Cancer Society, 2022).

Other names

Genomic DNANuclear DNAMitochondrial DNADouble-helical DNADeoxyribonucleic acid

DNA alkylation, DNA intercalation, DNA cross-linking, DNA strand breakage, and minor groove binding.