Microsatellite instability
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Microsatellite instability is a condition manifested by damaged DNA due to defects in the normal DNA repair process. Sections of DNA called microsatellites, which consist of a sequence of repeating units of 1-4 base pairs in length, become unstable and can shorten or lengthen. Microsatellites are also known as simple sequence repeats (SSRs).
Microsatellite instability can be seen in inherited defects in DNA repair, such as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome) which leads to an increased risk of developing cancers.
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