Fig. 2. Systemic responses to DNA damage.
Various endogenous and exogenous genotoxic stressors damage the DNA. Cell-non-autonomous DNA damage responses, such as attenuation of Insulin-like signaling (IIS) and activation of innate immune responses result in consequences of DNA lesions beyond the genotoxically insulted cells. Attenuation of IIS leads to decreased growth as well as to enhanced tissue maintenance, which promotes survival of the aging organism. Innate immune responses can promote clearance of damaged cells, thus contributing to tissue repair and maintenance. However, chronic inflammation can severely damage tissues thus contributing to functional decline and tissue degeneration.
