The process of homologous recombination involves several steps: 1. Double-Strand Break Recognition: The cell detects a double-strand break in the DNA. 2. Resection: The ends of the break are processed to generate single-stranded DNA. 3. Homology Search: The single-stranded DNA invades a homologous DNA duplex to form a displacement loop (D-loop). 4. Strand Exchange and Synthesis: DNA polymerase synthesizes new DNA using the homologous strand as a template. 5. Resolution: The D-loop is resolved, and the DNA strands are ligated to complete the repair.