DNA

as the fundamental material carrying genetics information

is consistently challenged by endogenous and exogenous stimuli

including oxidative stress

ionizing irradiation

and chemotherapeutic agents

just to name a few. DNA repair mechanisms are then essential for cell survival under stress. Altered DNA repair networks is one of the most important features of cancer cells

which makes targeting DNA repair pathways an emerging strategy in cancer therapeutics. We reviewed the evolving variety of strategies and current potent clinical  drug candidates in DNA repair targeting therapeutics.