telomeraseinhibitorien

Telomerase inhibitors are a class of drugs that target telomerase, an enzyme responsible for maintaining the length of telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. Telomeres shorten with each cell division, and when they reach a critical length, the cell enters a state of senescence or apoptosis. Telomerase inhibitors aim to extend telomere length, thereby potentially slowing down aging and age-related diseases.

Telomerase inhibitors can be classified into two main categories: small molecule inhibitors and antisense oligonucleotides. Small molecule inhibitors, such as G3139 and GRN163L, bind to the catalytic subunit of telomerase and inhibit its activity. Antisense oligonucleotides, like TAS-108, target the RNA component of telomerase and prevent its assembly.

Telomerase inhibitors have shown promise in various preclinical studies, including extending lifespan in model organisms and delaying the onset of age-related diseases. However, clinical trials have been limited due to the challenges of targeting telomerase in humans without causing adverse effects. Additionally, the potential for telomerase inhibitors to promote cancer growth, as telomerase is often reactivated in cancer cells, is a significant concern.

Despite these challenges, telomerase inhibitors remain an active area of research, with ongoing efforts to develop safer and more effective compounds. The potential benefits of telomerase inhibitors in slowing down aging and age-related diseases make them an intriguing area of study.