The difficulty of traditional photoprotectors in preventing actinic keratoses (AK) and keratinocyte skin cancer has led to research into new photoprotection measures. DNA repair enzymes are compounds that aim to increase the repair of DNA damaged by UV radiation and thus reduce the risk of carcinogenesis.
We conducted a systematic review on the use of DNA repair enzymes in the prevention and treatment of precancerous and cancerous skin conditions in full compliance with the PRISMA guidelines, including stud
ies published from 2000 to 2024.
A total of 486 articles were identified, 20 of which 20 were included: 9 randomized clinical trials and 11 quasi-experimental trials. A total of 8 studies focused on photolyase, 6 on endonuclease, and 6 on combinations of different DNA repair enzymes.
DNA repair enzymes reduce DNA damage and prevent skin cancer, especially when combined with each other as well as with traditional photoprotectors and other substances such as antioxidants. The heterogeneity of the studies limits the ability to draw definitive
conclusions.
