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Core Genetics & Mechanisms

Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ)

A DNA double-strand break repair pathway that directly ligates broken DNA ends without requiring a homologous template. It is an efficient but error-prone mechanism that can introduce small insertions or deletions (indels).

Overview

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is a DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair pathway that directly ligates broken DNA ends without requiring a homologous template. It is an efficient but error-prone mechanism that can introduce small insertions or deletions (indels), making it a fundamental process for both natural DNA repair and targeted genome modification.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is NHEJ preferred over homologous recombination?

NHEJ is preferred when high precision is not essential and rapid model generation is needed. It does not require donor templates and creates gene knockouts via small insertions or deletions.

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Related Terms

Homologous Recombination

A precise DNA repair and genetic engineering mechanism that uses a homologous sequence as a template to exchange or replace genetic material. It allows for accurate correction or insertion of DNA sequences at defined genomic loci.

Homology-Directed Repair (HDR)

A high-fidelity DNA repair mechanism that uses a homologous DNA sequence as a template to accurately fix double-strand breaks. Unlike NHEJ, HDR ensures precise integration or correction of genetic material.

Knockout (KO) Mouse Models

A genetically engineered mouse in which a specific gene has been permanently inactivated ('knocked out') to study its biological function, role in disease, and potential as a therapeutic target.

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