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Updated: Jun 9, 2025
05:37
Single-Molecule Fluorescence Visualization of DNA Polymerase Dynamics at G-Quadruplexes
Published on: April 4, 2025
361
G-quadruplex DNA and RNA in cellular senescence
Rocio Diaz Escarcega1, Paul Marshall2, Andrey S Tsvetkov1,3,4
1Department of Neurology, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, United States.
Frontiers in Aging
|October 24, 2024
Summary
Cellular senescence, a key aging process, is influenced by G-quadruplex (G4) DNA and RNA structures. Targeting G4s offers potential for anti-aging therapies and understanding sex differences in age-related diseases.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Aging Research
Background:
- Cellular senescence is a permanent cell-cycle arrest state linked to aging.
- Molecular mechanisms of senescence are widely studied, but the role of G-quadruplexes (G4s) is under-explored.
- G4 structures in DNA and RNA regulate fundamental cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of G-quadruplex (G4) DNA and RNA in mediating cellular senescence.
- To highlight G4 contributions to sex differences in age-associated diseases.
- To explore G4 manipulation for anti-aging strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on G-quadruplexes and cellular senescence.
- Analysis of G4 roles in transcription, replication, translation, and genomic stability.
- Examination of G4 involvement in age-related diseases and sex differences.
Main Results:
- G4 structures are implicated in regulating senescent phenotypes.
- G4s influence key cellular processes and can contribute to genomic instability.
- G4s play a role in sex-specific aging phenotypes and diseases.
Conclusions:
- G-quadruplexes are significant regulators of cellular senescence.
- Targeting G4 structures presents a promising avenue for anti-aging interventions.
- Understanding G4s can elucidate sex differences in aging and disease.
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