Olovnikov, telomeres and telomerase. is it possible to prolong a healthy life?

Abstract

The science of telomeres and telomerase has made tremendous progress in recent decades. In this review, we consider it first in a historical context (the Carrel-Hayflick-Olovnikov-Blackburn chain of discoveries) and then review current knowledge of telomere structure and dynamics in norm and pathology. Central to the review are the consequences of telomere shortening, including telomere position effects, DNA damage signaling, and increased genetic instability. Cell senescence and the role of telomere length in its development are discussed separately. Therapeutic aspects and risks of telomerase and other telomere lengthening methods are also discussed.