The Role of the WGR Domain in the Functions of PARP1 and PARP2

The PARP1 and PARP2 proteins are members of the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase family involved in the regulation of DNA repair and replication, RNA processing, ribosome biogenesis, transcription, cell division, and cell death. PARP1 and PARP2 are promising targets for the development of anticancer drugs and can be used in the treatment of cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and other disorders. The WGR domain has been shown to play a central role in the functioning of PARP1 and PARP2 proteins. This review considers the mechanisms of functioning of WGR domains in the PARP1 and PARP2 proteins, which have several similar and specialized properties. Understanding these processes is of great interest to fundamental science and can contribute to the development of more effective and selective inhibitors of PARP1 and PARP2.