Next Generation Sequence-based Technologies for Analyzing DNA Strand Breaks

Genomic DNA is constantly exposed to various types of exogenous and endogenous stimulants that induce DNA lesions, including single-strand breaks (SSBs) and double-strand breaks (DSBs). Unrepaired DNA damages eventually cause adverse effects on a wide range of cellular and physiological processes; therefore, it is of great interest to map the damaged and repaired DNA to elucidate the damage distribution on a genome-wide scale. In the past decade, several sequence-based approaches for detection and quantification of such modified DNA have been established via technological innovation in sequencing analysis, which have expanded our understanding of DNA damage and repair. This review provides an overview of next-generation sequence-based methods for damaged DNA analysis with a focus on DNA strand breaks, SSBs, and DSBs.