A Review on DNA Repair Inhibition by PARP Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy

Abstract

The DNA repair process protects the cells from DNA damaging agent by multiple pathways. Majority of the cancer therapy cause DNA damage which leads to apoptosis. The cell has natural ability to repair this damage which ultimately leads to development of resistance of drugs. The key enzymes involved in DNA repair process are poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARP). Tumor cells repair their defective gene via defective homologues recombination (HR) in the presence of enzyme PARP. PARP inhibitors inhibit the enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) which lead to apoptosis of cancer cells. Current clinical data shows the role of PARP inhibitors is not restricted to BRCA mutations but also effective in HR dysfunctions related tumors. Therefore, investigation in this area could be very helpful for future therapy of cancer. This review gives detail information on the role of PARP in DNA damage repair, the role of PARP inhibitors and chemistry of currently available PARP inhibitors.