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Updated: Jun 6, 2025

Telomere Length and Telomerase Activity; A Yin and Yang of Cell Senescence
Published on: May 22, 2013
The Notable Role of Telomere Length Maintenance in Complex Diseases
Jiahui Lv1, Xinmiao Zhao1, Linjie Zhao1
1State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China.
Abstract:
Telomere length function serves as a critical biomarker for biological aging and overall health. Its maintenance is linked to cancer, neurodegenerative conditions, and reproductive health. This review mainly examines genetic variations and environmental influences on telomere dynamics, highlighting key regulatory genes and mechanisms. Advances in telomere measurement methodologies are also reviewed, underscoring the importance of precise telomere assessment for disease prevention and treatment. Telomerase activation offers potential for cellular lifespan extension and anti-aging effects, whereas its inhibition emerges as a promising therapeutic approach for cancer. Regulatory mechanisms of tumor suppressor genes on telomerase activity are analyzed, with a comprehensive overview of the current state and future potential of telomerase inhibitors. In addition, the association between telomeres and neurodegenerative diseases is discussed, detailing how telomere attrition heightens disease risk and outlining multiple pathways by which telomerase protects neurons from damage and apoptosis.
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