Quantcast
Channel: Science Blog » Advancements in Genetic Engg
Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 4

Telomere Gene Therapy

0
0

Telomeres are now being extensively studied by biomedical researchers to study ageing and cancers and paved way to the development of anti-cancer. In a tumor cell the telomerase activity is enhanced and is the reason to maintain uncontrolled growth. The function of the telomerase is regulated by G-quadruplex structure. The close examination of G-quadruplex structure by stretching the DNA with the technique called magnetic tweezers and analysis of the structural aberration reveals that this region is very brittle.

The unfolded state of the G-quadruplex structure has a highly compacted conformation that can interact and favor the folding. These small molecules that bind to stabilize the telomere regions have rational design of anti-cancer drugs.

The telomerase gene therapy can be also used to extend the lifespan; the aged cells are replenished with new cell, for each time the cell divides the ends of chromosome i.e. telomerase gets shortened thus signaling the cell to stop division after certain length of the telomerase is lost.

These studies were confirmed by inserting the telomerase genes using viral vectors into the mice which carried telomere-lengthening enzymatic activity. An inactive form of telomerase had no effect on lifespan. This therapy was also beneficial in conditions associated with insulin sensitivity, osteoporosis, and physical coordination.

The post Telomere Gene Therapy appeared first on Science Blog.


Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 4

Latest Images

Trending Articles





Latest Images