Brains break and repair DNA to grow
Newborn mice neurons intentionally break and repair DNA strands to migrate during brain development, a process that may be normal and healthy. This discovery suggests that DNA damage in growing brains isn’t always harmful, offering a new perspective on how cells adapt. The findings could help scientists better understand brain growth and repair.
Double strand breaks in DNA (illustrated) routinely kill cells. In mice, the breaks — and subsequent repairs — are a normal part of healthy brain development.
Science News
