Telomerase reverse transcriptase

HTERT Final gif

Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (TERT) is a protein that is a component of the telomerase complex, which plays a critical role in the maintenance and lengthening of telomeres at the ends of chromosomes. Telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences that protect chromosomes from degradation and fusion with neighboring chromosomes. However, with each cell division, telomeres shorten, which can lead to cellular aging and senescence. TERT helps to counteract this process by adding telomeric DNA to shortened telomeres, thus promoting genome stability and cellular longevity.

Function

TERT, together with the RNA component TERC (telomerase RNA component), constitutes the core of the telomerase complex. TERT uses TERC as a template to add telomeric DNA sequences to the ends of chromosomes. This activity is crucial for stem cells, germ cells, and certain immune cells where high proliferative capacity is necessary. In most somatic cells, TERT expression is downregulated, leading to progressive telomere shortening and limited cell division potential.

Structure

The TERT protein has several key domains, including the RNA-binding domain, which interacts with TERC, and the reverse transcriptase domain, which is responsible for the synthesis of DNA from an RNA template. The structure of TERT enables it to bind to the end of a telomere and synthesize new telomere DNA, extending the telomere.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in TERT expression and function have been implicated in various human diseases. Overexpression of TERT is observed in many types of cancer, where it allows cancer cells to divide indefinitely, contributing to tumor growth and progression. Conversely, mutations that reduce TERT activity are associated with telomere syndromes such as dyskeratosis congenita, which are characterized by premature aging and increased risk of bone marrow failure and other disorders.

Regulation

The expression and activity of TERT are tightly regulated at multiple levels, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational modifications. Various transcription factors, epigenetic mechanisms, and signaling pathways influence TERT expression, reflecting the importance of maintaining a balance between telomere lengthening for cell survival and proliferation, and the risk of uncontrolled cell growth leading to cancer.

Research and Therapeutics

Research on TERT and the telomerase complex has been focused on understanding their roles in aging and cancer, with the aim of developing therapeutic interventions. Inhibitors of telomerase activity are being explored as potential cancer treatments, aiming to limit the proliferative capacity of cancer cells. Conversely, strategies to activate telomerase in aging cells are being studied for potential applications in age-related diseases and tissue regeneration.