Fig. 6: Model.
From: UV-induced G4 DNA structures recruit ZRF1 which prevents UV-induced senescence
UV irradiation induces G4s formation in the double helix. In wildtype cells ZRF1 enters the nucleus where it recognizes newly formed G4s and recruits DDB2. DNA is repaired and genome stability is maintained. Without ZRF1, newly formed G4s are recognized by DDB2, cells stall in G0/G1 phase and undergo senescence. Cell cycle blockage and senescence activation prevent activation of the repair machinery. These cells did not exhibit mortality in the first 3–4 days, but a complete mortality followed 1–2 weeks after treatment. The image was created with BioRender.com.
