[Telomere length, telomerase activity, stress and aging]

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Molecular Biology
• Psychoneuroimmunology

Background:

• Telomeres protect chromosome ends and shorten with cell division.
• Telomerase is an enzyme that can rebuild telomeres.
• Aging is associated with telomere shortening and decreased telomerase activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current data on the influence of stress on telomere length and telomerase activity.
• To explore methods for counteracting stress-related effects on telomeres.
• To examine the role of psychological state in aging and longevity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies.
• Analysis of data on stress, telomere dynamics, and aging.
• Evaluation of interventions, including psychological approaches.

Main Results:

• Stress negatively affects telomere length and telomerase activity.
• Telomere shortening and reduced telomerase activity can serve as markers of adaptability.
• Psychological interventions, alongside pharmacological ones, can retard aging and age-related diseases.

Conclusions:

• Psychological well-being and stress management are crucial for healthy aging.
• Interventions targeting stress can mitigate accelerated senescence.
• These approaches contribute to increased average human longevity.