The Notable Role of Telomere Length Maintenance in Complex Diseases.

Jiahui Lv, Xinmiao Zhao, Linjie Zhao, Chengjun Gong, Wanjie Zheng, Li Guo, Jun Wang, Tingming Liang

State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China.State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays, Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China. · pubmed

Paper

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.

The following analysis is generated by AI and may contain errors. It is separate from the authors’ abstract and is not peer review.

Research summary

The paper discusses telomere length maintenance as a biomarker for biological aging and its implications for various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative conditions. It explores genetic and environmental influences on telomere dynamics, which are relevant to understanding the mechanisms of aging. However, while it provides a solid overview of telomere-related research, it does not present groundbreaking findings or novel therapeutic approaches that significantly advance the field of longevity research. Thus, it is rated as a solid contribution but with limited impact.

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