How do ADP-ribosyltransferases relate to toxicology?
In toxicology, ADP-ribosyltransferases are key players in the cellular response to toxic insults. They are involved in the DNA damage response, a critical process activated by exposure to genotoxic agents such as radiation, chemicals, and environmental pollutants. When DNA damage occurs, PARPs rapidly respond by ADP-ribosylating target proteins involved in DNA repair pathways. This action facilitates the recruitment and assembly of DNA repair complexes, helping cells recover from damage and maintain genomic integrity.