How DNA Practices Self-Care

Mark your calendars because July 24th is International Self-Care Day! Now, I know self-care is all the rage these days, and the internet is like a never-ending vortex of advice on how to take care of ourselves in this crazy, demanding world. But what if I told you that the ultimate self-care guru exists in each and (almost) every one of our cells? You might think you’ve clicked on the wrong link, but read on! DNA, the blueprint of life itself, is a master when it comes to maintenance, repair, and self-care. So, get ready to learn some TLC strategies straight from the DNA playbook. Bonus: You’re already doing them!

DNA, the resilient master map of our genetic information, has truly stood the test of time, spanning lifetimes and generations. Its secret weapon? The iconic double helix structure. This twisted-ladder arrangement provides DNA with remarkable stability, both physically and chemically. When two DNA strands join forces, weak hydrogen bonds form between complementary base pairs (three between Guanine and Cytosine, four between Adenine and Thymine). Additionally, individual bases engage in strong stacking interactions. So here’s the first DNA self-care lesson: Instead of seeking a single magic solution for resilience, focus on a couple of micro habits because in DNA and in life, small things can add up to enduring resilience and robust well-being.

The resilience of DNA extends beyond its double helix structure. Enzymes present in the nucleus play a vital role in protecting and repairing damaged DNA, ensuring its longevity. These enzymes form a collaborative army, helping DNA recover from life’s inevitable mutations. Because damage to these enzymes (or the genes that code for them) can lead to several cancers as well as general aging, they receive a lot of research attention! If you’re interested, check out these hot-off-the-press Nature articles on repair enzymes. Or just take home this message: Between bath bombs and face masks, self-care might feel like a solo activity, but building connections and fostering a supportive network is just as crucial a component. Just as enzymes support DNA, the strength and support of a community can greatly enhance our abilities to function at our best.

One reason there are so many enzymes is that there are several different ways that DNA repairs itself. Scientists have mapped at least five major DNA repair pathways—base excision repair (BER), nucleotide excision repair (NER), mismatch repair (MMR), homologous recombination (HR), and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). Most of these repair DNA by removing the damaged bases followed by resynthesis of the excised region, but others simply recognize and remove the damaged DNA, while still others try to directly reverse the damage, such as UV-induced primer dimers. Leading us to DNA lesson number 3: Have a range of self-care options to ensure you’re equipped to address different needs and challenges that come your way.

Another final lesson we can take from DNA? Acceptance and action! External factors such as radiation, chemicals, and environmental toxins, as well as internal factors like metabolic processes, are constantly causing DNA lesions and mutations. These damages, if left unaddressed, can lead to genetic instability and potentially give rise to diseases like cancer. However, DNA, with its decidedly non-brain and non-inner critic advantage, doesn’t get lost in judgment or anxiety when mutations happen. Rather, it has several go-to repair routines to mend those errors, such as nucleotide excision repair (NER) or homologous recombination (HR). While these repair processes might not be your self-care cup of tea, the example and lesson from this stunning molecule is universal: ditch the judgment and instead jump into actions that mend.

From its resilient double helix structure to the collaborative efforts of repair enzymes, DNA has mastered the art of maintenance and rejuvenation. So, the next time you need some self-care inspiration, just remember that you have a self-care role model right inside you reminding you to start small, build a supportive network, have a range of self-care options, and practice acceptance and action. After all, if DNA can repair itself and keep going in the face of daily mutations, we can also find the strength to take care of ourselves and thrive in this wild a world. Now relax, take care, and copy your DNA!