Identifying mutations that can be targeted to cause tumor cell death selectively in a process known as synthetic lethality has become a paradigm of cancer research. Loss of DNA repair can provide a selective growth advantage to tumor cells by enhancing mutation rates and driving tumor evolution. In a Perspective, Higgins and Boulton
discuss how the DNA damage response protein known as DNA polymerase u is increased in certain tumors, such as those
found in breast and ovarian cancers. This pathway represents an exciting anticancer target that could perhaps be combined with radiotherapy to improve therapeutic response. —GKA
