The poly(ADP-ribosylation) story: a long route from Cinderella to Princess.

Poly(ADP-ribosylation) is a post-translational modification of proteins with a multifunctional role in basic processes, such as DNA repair, transcription, cell proliferation and death. For decades, this reaction was studied by a small community of researchers, devoted to the identification of signals promoting the conversion of the coenzyme NAD into poly(ADP-ribose) and the further degradation of the polymers. The development of specific inhibitors and the discovery of a superfamily of poly(ADP-ribosylating) enzymes have recently conferred a higher importance to this process. The main features of poly(ADP-ribosylation) together with new research perspectives will be discussed.