The protein encoded by this gene is involved in the efficient repair of DNA single-strand breaks formed by exposure to ionizing radiation and alkylating agents.This protein interacts with DNA ligase III,polymerase beta and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase to participate in the base excision repair pathway.It may play a role in DNA processing during meiogenesis and recombination in germ cells.A rare microsatellite polymorphism in this gene is associated with cancer in patients of varying radiosensitivity.[provided by RefSeq,Jul 2008]