Polθ
DNA polymerase theta (Polθ) is a unique, large (290 kDa) multifunctional A-family DNA polymerase that is required for DSB repair through the MMEJ pathway. Polθ plays a role in error-prone DNA repair pathways, including double-strand break repair and interstrand crosslink repair. The expression of Polθ is largely absent in normal cells but upregulated in breast, lung, and ovarian cancers. Inhibitors targeting Polθ have been developed to disrupt its enzymatic activity and impair DNA repair. These inhibitors have shown promise in increasing the sensitivity of cancer cells to DNA-damaging agents, improving treatment outcomes. Combining Polθ inhibitors with other DNA repair inhibitors or checkpoint inhibitors has also demonstrated synergistic effects. The study of Polθ as a therapeutic target and the development of its inhibitors represent a promising avenue for enhancing cancer treatment.