Non-homologous end-joining factor 1 (NHEJ1)

Non-homologous end-joining factor 1 (NHEJ1), also known as XLF or Cernunnos, is a DNA repair protein essential for the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway, which mediates the repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs)[1][2][5]. NHEJ1 is required for the ligation steps that rejoin DNA ends and is also involved in critical processes such as V(D)J recombination, necessary for immune diversity[1][2][5]. The protein interacts with key repair factors, including XRCC4 and DNA ligase IV, forming complexes that bridge and stabilize DNA ends prior to ligation[1][2][5]. Dysfunction or mutation in NHEJ1 results in severe combined immunodeficiency, developmental defects, and increased sensitivity to DNA-damaging agents, underlining its essential role in genome integrity and immune system function[1][2][4][5].

Other names

XLFCernunnosXRCC4-like factorprotein cernunnosFLJ12610IMD124MCOPCB13nonhomologous end-joining factor 1Nej1 (yeast homolog)