Transcription-coupled repair: protecting genome across generations

The primary objective of life is to ensure the faithful transmission of genetic material across generations, despite the constant threat posed by DNA-damaging factors. To counter these challenges, life has evolved intricate mechanisms to detect, signal, and repair DNA damage, thereby preventing mutations that can cause developmental abnormalities or diseases. DNA repair is especially vital during development - a period of rapid cell proliferation and differentiation. Failure to repair DNA damage in somatic cells can result in tissue dysfunction, while during embryonic development, it is often fatal. Transcription machinery plays a key role in the mechanisms of DNA repair. This review highlights current insights into DNA repair pathways that are driven or facilitated by transcription and their essential contribution to preserving genome stability.