Lighting torches in the DNA repair field: development of key concepts

In 1974, Philip Hanawalt organized what proved to be the first in a continuing series of meetings that bring together the DNA Repair and Mutagenesis community. In conjunction with this meeting, he also edited a book that defined the state of the field at that point in time and included his personal assessment of numerous critical issues. This review traces some of the critical concepts concerning DNA repair and biological responses to DNA damage that have developed since that time, highlighting ways in which Phil Hanawalt has provided leadership in the field at many different levels.