Compartmentalized DNA repair: Rif1 S-acylation links DNA double-strand break repair to the nuclear membrane.

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) disrupt the structural integrity of chromosomes. Proper DSB repair pathway choice is critical to avoid the type of gross chromosomal rearrangements that characterize cancer cells. Recent findings reveal S-fatty acylation and membrane anchorage of Rap1-interacting factor 1 (Rif1) as a mechanism providing spatial control over DSB repair pathway choice.