POLQ

POLQ, or DNA polymerase, is an enzyme encoded by the POLQ gene that plays a role in DNA replication and repair, particularly in the repair of DNA double-strand breaks. It is highly active in various cancers, and its activity is crucial for the survival of certain cancer cells. POLQ's mechanism includes filling in the gap in DNA replication, promoting continuation of replication, which can be error-prone and increase mutation rates. In BRCA-deficient cancer cells, inhibition of POLQ can induce synthetic lethality, making it a potential target for cancer treatment.