Final answer:
Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is a repair mechanism that joins DNA ends without a template. It is independent of homologous recombination and can repair double-stranded breaks caused by replication errors or environmental factors. Proteins like Ku and DNA ligase are involved in the repair process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Double-strand break repair by Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) involves joining DNA ends without a template. It is a repair mechanism that is independent of homologous recombination. NHEJ can repair double-stranded breaks caused by DNA replication errors or environmental factors, such as ionizing radiation or oxidation. The repair process involves proteins like Ku, which bring DNA strands together, and DNA ligase, which seals the ends of DNA strands.