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Telomerase

Telomerase is an enzyme that helps maintain telomere length, supporting genomic stability and healthy cell division. Because telomeres shorten as we age, it has become a major focus in aging and longevity research.

By extending telomeres, it can potentially delay cellular senescence, improve tissue regeneration and influence the biological clock of aging.

What are telomeres

Telomeres are repeating sequences of DNA found at the ends of chromosomes. They act as protective caps, preventing damage during cell replication. However, each time a cell divides, its telomeres become shorter.

Once telomeres become too short, the cell can no longer divide and enters a state called cellular senescence or undergoes apoptosis (programmed cell death). This shortening process is one of the known hallmarks of aging.

Telomere length is influenced by both genetics and lifestyle factors, and it’s considered a biomarker of biological age.

How telomerase works

Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein enzyme made of two main components:

  • TERT (telomerase reverse transcriptase): the catalytic protein;
  • TERC (telomerase RNA component): the template for adding DNA repeats.

Telomerase extends telomeres by adding new DNA sequences to the ends of chromosomes, effectively slowing or reversing the natural shortening that occurs with each cell cycle.

While active in stem cells, germline cells and most cancer cells, it is largely inactive in adult somatic cells, which is why most cells have a limited number of divisions (known as the Hayflick limit).

Telomerase and aging

As telomerase activity declines with age, telomeres shorten and cells lose their ability to divide and repair tissues. This contributes to:

In theory, enhancing telomerase activity in certain cell types could delay aging, promote tissue repair and extend healthspan. However, this must be approached cautiously, as it is also highly active in cancer cells, which use it to maintain uncontrolled growth.

Telomerase and longevity research

Animal studies have shown promising results, mice genetically modified to express more telomerase experienced delayed aging and improved healthspan, especially when combined with tumor suppression strategies.

The field of telomerase therapy is still emerging, with interest in using gene therapy, RNA therapeutics or small molecules to stimulate safe telomerase activity in humans.

At the same time, researchers continue to explore the balance between cellular longevity and the risk of cancer proliferation.

Natural ways to support telomere health

Even without direct telomerase activation, there are lifestyle habits associated with longer telomeres and healthier aging:

  • Regular physical activity (especially aerobic and resistance training);
  • Anti-inflammatory diets rich in vegetables, fruits, omega 3s and polyphenols;
  • Sleep quality and circadian rhythm support;
  • Mindfulness and stress reduction, which reduce cortisol and oxidative stress;
  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, which accelerate telomere shortening.

Certain compounds, like vitamin D, curcumin, resveratrol and omega-3 fatty acids, may help protect telomere length.

Telomerase is a key enzyme in the maintenance of chromosomal integrity and cellular longevity. By preserving telomere length, it helps delay cellular aging and supports tissue regeneration.

While direct activation of telomerase in humans is still under study, maintaining healthy telomeres through lifestyle, stress management and nutrient support is a practical way to protect long term vitality.

As research evolves, it may become a cornerstone in personalized longevity therapies, with the potential to influence not just how long we live, but how well we age.

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