APEX1 (Apurinic/Apyrimidinic Endonuclease 1)

APEX1, or Apurinic/Apyrimidinic Endonuclease 1, is an essential enzyme involved in DNA repair. It identifies and cuts damaged sites in DNA where bases (the building blocks of DNA) have been lost or removed, known as abasic sites. By doing this, APEX1 facilitates the removal of faulty DNA segments, allowing the cell to replace and restore the proper genetic code. It also plays a role in responding to oxidative stress and regulating gene expression. Overall, APEX1 helps maintain DNA integrity, which is vital for healthy cell function and preventing mutations that can lead to diseases like cancer.