A pioneering study by scientists from the University of Cyprus and the University of Oxford has uncovered a new cellular mechanism that could lead to innovative treatments for cancer and rare genetic disorders, it was reported on Thursday.

The research, published in Science Advances, reveals a previously unknown function of the ATR protein, which is widely recognised for its role in repairing DNA damage. The study found that ATR also plays a crucial role in strengthening the nucleus of cells, protecting them from external mechanical forces.

According to an announcement from the University of Cyprus, this discovery could pave the way for new therapies targeting conditions associated with nuclear fragility, including certain types of cancer and rare genetic diseases.

Dr Maria Hadjifrangeskou, the study’s lead author, highlighted the potential clinical significance of the findings. 

“Our work reveals a key cellular mechanism that could be the foundation for new treatments in diseases where the nucleus is particularly vulnerable,” she said.

While ATR is well known for its role in DNA repair, the study demonstrates that it has another equally important function. Researchers found that ATR relocates to the nuclear envelope, where it activates a mechanism that promotes the formation of a protective protein network known as nuclear actin. This internal support structure is essential for reinforcing the nucleus and shielding it from external stress, particularly in tissues exposed to constant mechanical forces, such as the lungs, heart, and muscles.

The broader medical implications of this discovery are significant. Nuclear instability is a hallmark of various diseases, including muscular dystrophies, progeria (a rare premature ageing disorder), and aggressive cancers. When cells lack robust mechanisms to protect the nucleus, they become more vulnerable to damage, which can worsen these conditions.

Leading researchers at the University of Cyprus believe that targeting ATR could offer new therapeutic possibilities. In cancer patients, enhancing nuclear resilience may help prevent metastasis, potentially improving survival rates. Furthermore, regulating nuclear actin dynamics could advance gene therapy, providing novel solutions for disorders characterised by nuclear fragility.

“Our findings transform the way we perceive ATR. Beyond its established role in DNA repair, it appears to be crucial in protecting the nucleus from external pressures. This knowledge may open new avenues for treating diseases where nuclear integrity is compromised,” Dr Hadjifrangeskou stated.

According to the University of Cyprus, this study emerges at a time when scientists are increasingly focusing on the mechanical forces acting on cells and their impact on human health. From heart disease to neurodegenerative disorders, how cells respond to mechanical stress plays a vital role in the onset and progression of many conditions. The discovery of ATR’s role in nuclear protection adds a new dimension to understanding these mechanisms.