DNA Damage Is Trigger For Apoptosis In Fanconi Anemia Cells

Researchers have found that Fanconi anemia cells accumulate DNA damage at lower exposures to a DNA-damaging agent than do normal cells. They found that in all cells, the accumulation of cells undergoing apoptosis (programmed cell death) did not occur until a certain threshold of DNA damage was reached. According to the researchers, the Fanconi anemia cells probably have an inherent defect that prevents them from repairing damaged DNA.The study was presented at the annual meeting of the Pediatric Academic Societies in New Orleans, May 1-5. For interviews during the meeting, contact the press room at (504) 670-8502 or 670-8508.Researchers’ Institutional Contact: Bud Perron (212) 843-8068 bperro@rubenstein.com