Dear colleagues,

Despite its strategic location and apparent protection, the integrity of the genetic material is the result of a continuous and delicate balance between the mechanisms that induce its injury and those in charge of its repair, whose effectiveness is vital for the normal functioning of the cells and the perpetuity in the transmission of the genetic message in a faithful way. The modalities and mechanisms of DNA damage are very varied, including different forms of structural modification and functional alteration. Together with exogenous factors such as those induced by chemical agents and ionizing radiation, cells must cope with a rate of genetic damage of 10³ to 10⁶ impacts per cell and day to which normal aerobic metabolism contributes, with the production of reactive species of oxygen (ROS) (3-5% of breathed oxygen) and the consequent alteration of the redox balance which may have profound effects on the regulation of cell signaling pathways. In DNA molecule structure, many of these lesions can stop replication and alter or inhibit gene transcription. Other lesions, if not repaired before replication takes place, may induce potentially harmful mutations in the cell's genome, which affect the survival of its daughter cells after it undergoes mitosis. Genomic instability is an essential step in the development of age associated comorbidities, such as cardiometabolic disorders, tissue failure and tumor processes. Higher animals, microorganisms, and plants are susceptible to this potential hazard. Fortunately, evolution has allowed the development of a plethora of diverse, specific and efficient DNA repair systems, under the control of multiple molecules and transcriptional factors. The TP53 protein, also known as the guardian of the genome, together with other onco and tumor suppressor proteins are representative examples.
It is vitally important to know in detail both the mechanisms that lead to genetic instability and those that prevent and repair it. In this sense, the Special Issue "DNA damage and repair in biology in medicine" tries to bring together contributions by research groups that bring new light on their molecular mechanisms and future perspectives on their translational applications.

Prof. Dr. Guillermo T. Sáez
Dr. Celia Banuls
Guest Editors

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