Telomerase Reactivation by 4-OHT as a Measure to Reverse Aging

Abstract

Aging may be defined as the progressive loss of physiological function leading to bodily deterioration. Many human diseases occur as a result of this deterioration. Primarily, aging affects the reproductive system and neurological pathways most problematically. Thus, the concept of aging in humans has garnered much attention and sparked studies of compensatory measures to delay and prevent the degenerative process. Different remedies are known to slow aging, but the ability to reverse the process has yet to be confirmed. One molecular hallmark of aging is the progressive shortening of telomere length, as an organism grows older. Thus, this review outlines a study on the regenerative abilities of telomerase reactivation in mice. Results from telomere manipulation in mice suggest that certain procedures may be done to reverse many deficits of aging in humans by extending telomeres. Although this conclusion is ground breaking, more research is needed to confirm the effect of telomere reactivation in humans.