What are the Consequences of DNA Polymerase Inhibition?
Inhibition of DNA polymerase can lead to a range of cellular outcomes. When replication is interrupted, cells may enter a state of stress, which can result in apoptosis or programmed cell death. Prolonged inhibition can cause genomic instability, a precursor to cancer. In toxicological studies, measuring the effects on DNA polymerase activity helps gauge the carcinogenic potential of a substance.
