Articles tagged with Telomeres
A Princeton scientist has discovered a naturally occurring protein that inhibits telomerase, which replicates and lengthens chromosome ends. The protein, Pif1p, acts directly on the chromosome ends to keep the lengthening process in check.
Researchers found that cow clones exhibit youthful telomeres, indicating a potential for increased lifespan, whereas normal cells age prematurely. This breakthrough erases doubts about cloning's utility by showing it doesn't rob cells of their normal lifespan.
Fox Chase Cancer Center molecular biologist Dominique Broccoli has been awarded a $100,000 V Foundation Scholarship to investigate the role of telomeres in cellular aging. Her research aims to understand how telomere length limits cell growth and renewal, potentially leading to new approaches for limiting tumor growth.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins describe fundamental shape of telomerase molecule in mammals and other vertebrates, identifying four common areas highly involved with the enzyme's working. This new information may prompt approaches to inhibit the enzyme, which is active in cancer cells and contributes to their continuous cell division.
Scientists find that telomerase enzyme contributes to chromosome stability beyond telomere length, offering a new target for extending cell life span and combating cancer. The discovery suggests a novel approach to manipulating the enzyme for therapeutic purposes.
Mice lacking a gene for making telomeres displayed symptoms of aging, including graying hair and increased tumor incidence. However, the study reveals that telomere loss is not solely responsible for aging, suggesting other mechanisms at play.
This book brings together international specialists to discuss the genetic structure of telomeres, telomerase function, and their importance in aging and cancer. The chapters cover topics such as telomere length regulation, chromosome end replication, and telomerase repressor genes.