NKX3.1 contributes to S phase entry and regulates DNA damage response (DDR) in prostate cancer cell lines

► Number of γH2AX(S139) foci increases upon CPT-11 treatments. ► γH2AX(S139) status is altered by androgens in LNCaP cells. ► Number of foci also decreases in PC-3 cells by ectopic NKX3.1 expression. ► NKX3.1 expression down-regulates DDR mediators, especially pATM(S1981). ► NKX3.1 reprograms S phase transition upon DNA damage by increasing Cyclin D1 expression.