Single-stranded DNA-binding protein 1 (hSSB1)

Single-stranded DNA-binding protein 1 (hSSB1), encoded by the OBFC2B gene, is a vital protein involved in maintaining genomic stability through its role in the DNA damage response (DDR) [UniProt: Q96AH0]. It functions as a core component of the Sensor of Single-Strand DNA (SOSS) complex, where it recognizes and binds to single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) generated at sites of DNA damage or stalled replication forks [PubMed: 18716622]. This binding is crucial for the recruitment of downstream repair factors and the activation of the ATM-mediated signaling pathway, particularly in the context of homologous recombination (HR) repair of double-strand breaks [PubMed: 19411066]. In many human cancers, such as breast, lung, and colorectal cancer, hSSB1 is found to be overexpressed, which often correlates with poor prognosis and resistance to DNA-damaging therapies [PubMed: 23536446]. As a result, hSSB1 is considered a promising therapeutic target; inhibiting its function can sensitize tumor cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy by impairing their ability to repair treatment-induced DNA damage [PubMed: 26823719].

Other names

OBFC2BSOSS-ASensor of single-strand DNA complex subunit AOB-fold DNA-binding domain-containing protein 2BSSB1

Inhibition of hSSB1-ssDNA binding to disrupt the DNA damage response and sensitize cells to DNA-damaging agents.