Researchers have shown that restoring levels of a specific subunit of the telomerase enzyme can reduce signs of aging in preclinical models, which could have therapeutic implications for age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, heart disease, and cancer.
The study, published in Cell, identified a compound that restores telomerase levels, reducing cellular senescence, inflammation, improving memory, and enhancing muscle function and coordination.
Telomerase reverses telomere shortening associated with aging and prevents DNA damage response that leads to cell senescence and tissue inflammation.
In previous experiments, deactivating the TERT gene caused premature aging, which could be reversed via TERT reactivation, rejuvenating certain cell types without cell division.
Researchers developed a drug to restore TERT levels and identified a small molecule compound that activates TERT and reverses aging signs in preclinical models.
Treatment with the compound led to new neuron formation, improved cognitive performance, reduced inflammaging, and enhanced neuromuscular function and muscle strength in older models.
Further studies are required to evaluate the long-term safety and effectiveness of the compound in treating age-related diseases.
The research was supported by various organizations and involved collaborations with researchers from different institutes.
