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Updated: May 24, 2025

Semi-quantitative Detection of RNA-dependent RNA Polymerase Activity of Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Protein
Published on: June 12, 2018
Canonical and non-canonical functions of the non-coding RNA component (TERC) of telomerase complex
Chongwen Cao1, Weiyi Gong1,2, Yuanlong Shuai1,2
1Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
Abstract:
The telomerase complex consists of a protein component (TERT), which has reverse transcriptase activity, and an RNA component (TERC), which serves as a template for telomere synthesis. Evidence is rapidly accumulating regarding the non-canonical functions of these components in both normal or diseased cells. An oligonucleotide-based drug, the first telomerase inhibitor, secured FDA approval in June 2024. We recently summarized the non-canonical functions of TERT in viral infections and cancer. In this review, we expand on these non-canonical functions of TERC beyond telomere maintenance. Specifically, we explore TERC's roles in cellular aging and senescence, immune regulation, genetic diseases, human cancer, as well as involvement in viral infections and host interactions. Finally, we discuss a transcription product of telomere repeats, TERRA, and explore strategies for targeting TERC as a therapeutic approach.
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