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Synthetic engineering of telomerase RNA, development of polygenic scores paves way to better understanding of telomeres

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have developed a new approach to lengthening telomeres using synthetic RNA. The technique, known as eTERC, has been shown to increase telomere length in human stem cells and leave normal cell mechanisms intact. Additionally, polygenic scores have been developed to estimate the combined effect o...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 14, 2025

A new target for treatment of one type of macular degeneration

Researchers found that inhibiting telomerase, an enzyme related to cell growth and division, can suppress abnormal vascular growth in the retina. This discovery provides a potential alternative treatment option for wet AMD, which is currently treated with anti-VEGF injections.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular Basis of Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2024

Double trouble at chromosome ends

Scientists have discovered two new end-replication problems in DNA replication, affecting both the leading and lagging strands. This revelation changes our understanding of telomere biology and may hold clinical implications for individuals with telomere disorders, such as Coats plus syndrome.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateFeb 28, 2024

Targeting telomeres might be an effective therapeutic strategy against lung cancer, according to a CNIO study

Researchers have studied targeting telomeres as a potential therapeutic strategy for non-small cell lung cancer. Telomere dysfunction and telomerase deficiency slowed tumor progression, increasing vulnerability to DNA damage and immune system response.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 25, 2023

Making melanoma immortal: Pitt scientists discover key genetic step in cancer’s race to live forever

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have discovered a genetic link between melanoma tumors and telomere maintenance, which could lead to new treatments for the disease. The study found that mutations in the TPP1 gene stimulate telomerase activity, promoting long telomeres that enable cancer cells to divide in...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience·DateNov 10, 2022

ASU scientists discover dual-function messenger RNA

Researchers have discovered a new pathway for producing telomerase RNA from protein-coding messenger RNA, offering potential innovations in mRNA vaccines and understanding of telomere biology. This finding has implications for reversing cellular aging and extending human lifespan.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2022

New mechanism extends life of immune system

Researchers discovered a telomere transfer reaction between immune cells that extends their lifespan and confers long-term protection. This 'anti-ageing' mechanism has potential clinical applications for diseases like cancer and dementia, and may enable people to live healthier and longer.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2022

Research identifies, exploits vulnerability in certain high-risk cancers

A recent study published in Cancer Research identified a unique vulnerability in certain high-risk cancers that can be exploited for targeted therapy. Researchers found that cancer cells with alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) have a common weakness, leading to resistance to DNA-damaging agents and chemotherapy.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalCancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2022

Study could lead to new treatments for neuroblastoma

Researchers have identified a new potential treatment for neuroblastoma by targeting the ALT mechanism, which is responsible for chemotherapy resistance. The study found that activating ATM kinase at telomeres promotes chemotherapy resistance in ALT neuroblastoma and suggests a cancer-specific approach to treating this disease.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Can plants tell us something about longevity?

Researchers from Arizona State University uncover the structure and function of plant telomerase RNA, a 'missing link' between ciliates and humans. This discovery may hold promise for extending human lifespan and improving health in elderly individuals by understanding the regulation of telomerase enzyme.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 18, 2019

Nobel Laureate, Tom Cech, Ph.D., suggests new way to target third most common oncogene, TERT

Researchers have identified a new way to target the third most common oncogene, TERT. The study reveals that TERT messenger RNA is held up in the nucleus, and keeping it trapped could be an effective strategy for treating cancer. This discovery offers a promising new approach in the fight against TERT over-activation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2019

Mutations linked to repair of chromosome ends may make emphysema more likely in smokers

A new study found that mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene increase the risk of emphysema in smokers. Female smokers with these mutations may be more susceptible to the disease. The researchers also discovered a link between telomere shortening and other health problems, such as osteoporosis and liver disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 14, 2015