Telomere and Telomerase Dynamics in Human Cells

Title: Telomere and Telomerase Dynamics in Human Cells

Volume: 5 Issue: 2

Author(s): W. C. Hahn

Affiliation:

Keywords: eukaryotic chromosomes, expression, cell transformation, karyotypic, phenotype, mitosis, apoptosis

Abstract: Accumulating evidence now implicates telomeres and telomerase as critical regulators genomic stability and replicative lifespan in mammalian cells. Disruption of telomere maintenance and/or telomerase expression contributes to the etiology of some degenerative diseases and may participate in the process of aging. Although telomere dysfunction and aberrant telomerase expression clearly play important roles in cancer development, the contribution of telomere biology to cancer is complex and involves both positive and negative influences on tumor development. Indeed, recent work from several laboratories suggests additional roles for telomeres and telomerase in both normal and malignant physiology. Understanding the complexity of telomere biology will provide further insights into chromosome biology in both normal and malignant cells.

Cite this article as:

Hahn C. W., Telomere and Telomerase Dynamics in Human Cells, Current Molecular Medicine 2005; 5 (2) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1566524053586572