Missing and broken off telomers (IMAGE) Universitatsklinikum Bonn Caption Missing and broken off telomers illustrate how DNA damage occurs in cells lacking SAMHD1. However, this DNA damage does not cause activation of the interferon system, instead the cell´s own RNA is sensed. Credit Lina Muhandes, IKCKP, Bonn Usage Restrictions No License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.