Clastogenesis

Clastogenesis is a biological process that involves the induction of structural chromosome aberrations (SCAs) in cells. These aberrations can include chromosome breakage, chromosome deletion, chromosome inversion, and chromosome translocation. Clastogenesis is a significant process in the field of genetics and cell biology, as it can lead to genetic disorders and diseases, including cancer.

Mechanism[edit | edit source]

Clastogenesis occurs when there is a break in the DNA double helix, which can be caused by various factors such as radiation, chemical mutagens, and certain viruses. The broken ends of the DNA can then rejoin in a different configuration, leading to a structural chromosome aberration.

The process of clastogenesis involves several steps. First, the DNA double helix is broken, either by a physical or chemical agent. The broken ends of the DNA are then processed by the cell's repair machinery, which includes proteins such as DNA ligase and DNA polymerase. These proteins can rejoin the broken ends of the DNA in a different configuration, leading to a structural chromosome aberration.

Implications[edit | edit source]

Clastogenesis has significant implications in the field of genetics and medicine. Structural chromosome aberrations can lead to genetic disorders and diseases, including cancer. For example, the Philadelphia chromosome, which is a result of a specific chromosome translocation, is associated with chronic myeloid leukemia.

In addition, clastogenesis is a key process in the development of resistance to certain drugs in cancer cells. This is because the structural chromosome aberrations can lead to changes in the DNA sequence, which can result in the overexpression or underexpression of certain genes. This can lead to the development of resistance to certain drugs.