Non-canonical functions of Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase - Impact on redox homeostasis.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (TERT) is known for preventing telomere erosion.
• TERT also performs non-canonical functions, including apoptosis protection and redox homeostasis maintenance.
• TERT levels are found in tissues with low replicative potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the non-canonical functions of TERT.
• To explore the relationship between TERT and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
• To assess the therapeutic potential of mitochondrial TERT.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of TERT presence in various tissues.
• Investigation of TERT's role in cellular redox balance.
• Examination of TERT's localization and function within mitochondria.

Main Results:

• TERT regulates ROS levels in both cytosol and mitochondria.
• TERT protects mitochondrial DNA and maintains anti-oxidative enzymes.
• TERT and ROS exhibit a mutual regulatory relationship.

Conclusions:

• TERT has significant non-canonical roles beyond telomere maintenance.
• TERT's presence in mitochondria is crucial for cellular redox homeostasis.
• Enhancing mitochondrial TERT levels presents a potential therapeutic strategy for oxidative stress-related diseases.