Telomerasenryhmä

Telomerasenryhmä, also known as the telomerase group, refers to a collection of individuals or entities focused on the research and study of telomerase. Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein enzyme that adds repetitive DNA sequences to the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes, known as telomeres. These telomeres serve to protect the chromosome ends from degradation and fusion. In most somatic cells, telomerase activity is low or absent, leading to telomere shortening with each cell division. However, in germ cells, stem cells, and a significant proportion of cancer cells, telomerase is active, maintaining telomere length and allowing for continued proliferation.

Research into telomerase has significant implications for understanding aging and cancer. Telomere shortening is considered a biological clock, contributing to cellular senescence and organismal aging. Conversely, the reactivation of telomerase in cancer cells is crucial for their uncontrolled growth and immortality. Consequently, the telomerasenryhmä investigates the mechanisms of telomerase regulation, its role in various cellular processes, and its potential as a therapeutic target. This includes exploring ways to inhibit telomerase in cancer treatment to limit tumor growth or, conversely, to activate it for regenerative medicine purposes. The group's work often involves molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry techniques to unravel the complex functions of this vital enzyme.