poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1
(PAH-lee (… RY-bose) puh-LIH-meh-rays-1)
An enzyme involved in many functions of the cell, including the repair of DNA damage. DNA damage may be caused by normal cell actions, UV light, some anticancer drugs, and radiation used to treat cancer. Inhibitors of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 are being studied in the treatment of cancer. Also called PARP-1.