Q9BT30

ALKBH7 also known as SPATA11, ABH7 is a member of the alkylated DNA repair homolog family that is responsible for repair of DNA damage induced by oxidation and alkylation. ALKBH7 is a nuclear encoded protein that contains an amino-terminal mitochondrial targeting sequence that directs import of ALKBH7 to the mitochondria. ALKBH7 protein lacks a functional nucleotide recognition lid essential for nucleobase-binding, which abrogates any DNA or RNA repair capability. In response to DNA damage, mitochondrial ALKBH7 triggers the collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential. The resultant loss of mitochondrial function leads to depletion of cellular energy and programmed cell death.