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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Utilizing Murine Inducible Telomerase Alleles in the Studies of Tissue Degeneration/Regeneration and Cancer

Utilizing Murine Inducible Telomerase Alleles in the Studies of Tissue Degeneration/Regeneration and Cancer

Published on: April 13, 2015

Targeting telomerase-expressing cancer cells.

Michel M Ouellette¹, Woodring E Wright, Jerry W Shay

¹Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.

Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine

|February 22, 2011

Summary

Telomeres and telomerase are key targets for cancer therapeutics. This review updates on their role in aging, senescence, and promising clinical trials for cancer treatment.

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Area of Science:

Oncology
Molecular Biology
Gerontology

Background:

Telomeres and telomerase are crucial in cellular aging and cancer development.
Replicative senescence acts as a barrier against cancer cell immortalization.
Dysfunctional telomeres are linked to aging and cancer progression.

Purpose of the Study:

To provide an update on telomeres and telomerase as cancer therapeutic targets.
To identify knowledge gaps and promising clinical advancements.
To explore selective targeting strategies for enhanced cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

Review of current literature on telomere and telomerase biology.
Analysis of emerging therapeutic strategies in clinical trials.
Discussion of immunotherapy, gene therapy, and oligonucleotide-based approaches.

Main Results:

Dysfunctional telomeres contribute to cellular aging and senescence.
Targeting telomeres and telomerase offers potential for cancer treatment.
Several promising therapeutic strategies are advancing into clinical trials.

Conclusions:

Telomere and telomerase research continues to be vital for cancer therapeutics.
Selective targeting strategies show promise for enhancing cancer therapy efficacy.
Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps and optimize treatment outcomes.