Telomerase Plays a Protective Role in Cell Aging, Previously Unknown
The results of the new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences have shown that the telomerase activity is reactivated by normal adult cells in the later stages of cell aging. This activity reduces the risk of DNA damage which could cause cells to develop cancer. This study changes the way we think about telomerase in normal cells, said Kan Cao PhD, associate professor of molecular and cell biology at UMD. Our work shows for the first-time that telomerase has a function in adult cells other than promoting tumor development.
A team led by the University of Maryland found that telomerase – which immortalizes cells – also prevents tumours and slows down a critical stage of normal cell death.
Source:
Previously Unknown Protective Role Uncovered for Telomerase in Somatic Cell Aging
