Healthy aging and disease: role for telomere biology?

Clin Sci (Lond). 2011 May;120(10):427-40. doi: 10.1042/CS20100385.

Abstract

Aging is a biological process that affects most cells, organisms and species. Human aging is associated with increased susceptibility to a variety of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, neurological diseases and cancer. Despite the remarkable progress made during the last two decades, our understanding of the biology of aging remains incomplete. Telomere biology has recently emerged as an important player in the aging and disease process.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging / genetics*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / genetics
  • Chronic Disease
  • Diabetes Mellitus / genetics
  • Humans
  • Stem Cells / physiology
  • Telomerase / physiology
  • Telomere / physiology*
  • Telomere / ultrastructure

Substances

  • Telomerase