Somatic Mutations of Hematopoietic Cells Are an Additional Mechanism of Body Aging, Conducive to Comorbidity and Increasing Chronification of Inflammation

Olovnikov, Telomeres, and Telomerase. Is It Possible to Prolong a Healthy Life?

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 on the telomere structure and dynamics in norm and pathology. Central to the review are consequences of the telomere shortening, including telomere position effects, DNA damage signaling, and increased genetic instability. Cell senescence and role of telomere length in its development are discussed separately. Therapeutic aspects and risks of telomere lengthening methods including use of telomerase and other approaches are also discussed.

Special Issue: "Telomerase: Role in Health and Aging"

We would like to introduce the new volume: "Telomerase and Telomeres: Its Role in Health and Aging 2 [...].