Link between Smoking and DNA Damage

In February 2025, a team from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem uncovered how the structure and chemical modifications of DNA influence lung cancer risk from smoking.

Key Points

Chemical Responsible: Benzo(a)pyrene, a toxic chemical in cigarette smoke, binds to DNA, disrupts function, and causes mutations.
DNA organization matters: More open and active DNA regions are vulnerable but repair damage efficiently, accumulating fewer mutations.
After effects: Poor repair mechanisms in certain regions lead to higher mutation risks and increased cancer susceptibility.
Gene-regulating proteins can either protect DNA or increase susceptibility to damage.