Biochemists at Utrecht University have developed a fluorescent sensor that makes DNA damage and repair visible in living cells and animals for the first time. In an article published in Nature Communications, the researchers demonstrate how the sensor binds to damaged DNA without interfering with the repair process.

Our DNA is constantly subjected to damage, for example from sunlight or chemicals, or during the replication process. The cell uses various proteins to quickly and efficiently repair the DNA breaks that occur during this process. When this fails, however, it often has adverse consequences. Due to its significant role in ageing, cancer and other diseases, researchers wish to monitor this repair process as closely as possible.