Homology-Directed Repair (HDR) is a DNA repair mechanism. It is activated in a cell upon damage to double-stranded DNA. During HDR, the damaged DNA site is repaired using homologous DNA as template for precisely restoring the damaged DNA sequence. HDR enables the cells to maintain their genomic integrity (the 'accuracy' of the instructions they contain) and reduce accumulation of mutations.
Scientists can use HDR to introduce changes into the genome. This is done by designing a DNA 'template', and introducing it into the cell. This is usually done using a plasmid (a loop of bacterial DNA). This approach is used to model genetic diseases in the lab.
This entry was provided by the doctoral students of the GetRADI collaborative network. GetRADI is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.