DNA adduct

A chemical group covalently attached to DNA. Depending on its structure and location, it can distort DNA, block replication, or cause mutations.

DNA alkylation: The transfer of an alkyl group to DNA bases or backbone atoms. Alkylation creates a major class of covalent DNA adducts.
DNA adductomics: The broad analysis of DNA adducts in biological samples using analytical chemistry. It surveys adduct mixtures to connect exposures with molecular damage.
DNA: A molecule that stores hereditary information in most living organisms. Adducts attach to DNA bases or its sugar-phosphate backbone.
Oxidative DNA damage: DNA damage caused by reactive oxygen species, including chemically altered bases and strand breaks. Oxidation can modify DNA without attaching a separate chemical group as an adduct.
Bulky DNA adduct: A large chemical modification attached to DNA that can distort its double helix. Bulky adducts often obstruct replication and are repaired by nucleotide excision repair.
Mass spectrometry: An analytical technique that identifies molecules by measuring their mass-to-charge ratios. It can detect and characterize adducts after DNA is enzymatically broken down.
Nucleobase: A nitrogen-containing component of nucleotides that carries genetic sequence information. Chemical attachment to a base can alter its pairing behavior.
DNA interstrand crosslink: A covalent link joining the two strands of a DNA molecule. An adduct attaches a group to DNA, while an interstrand crosslink ties the strands together.
Nucleotide excision repair: A DNA repair pathway that removes a short strand segment containing bulky damage. It excises many helix-distorting adducts before they become permanent mutations.
Biomarker of exposure: A measurable substance or molecular change indicating contact with an external agent. Adduct levels can record biologically effective exposure more directly than environmental measurements.

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