Telomere Lengthening Peptides are short chains of amino acids designed to modulate the activity of the enzyme telomerase, thereby promoting the elongation of telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. Telomere shortening is a primary hallmark of cellular senescence and biological aging, leading to genomic instability and eventual cell death. These peptides are a class of novel therapeutic agents being investigated in the longevity space for their potential to reverse cellular aging and enhance the replicative capacity of key somatic cells. Their clinical application is focused on maintaining cellular vitality and extending healthspan.
Origin
The concept stems directly from the discovery of telomerase and its role in cellular immortality, which earned the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2009. The development of specific, biologically active peptides is a modern advancement in molecular gerontology, seeking a more targeted and safer approach than earlier, less specific interventions. This research is driven by the clear link between telomere attrition and age-related disease.
Mechanism
The primary mechanism involves the peptide acting as a molecular signal or direct activator of the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) component of the telomerase enzyme complex. By increasing telomerase activity, the enzyme is able to add repetitive nucleotide sequences to the shortened telomere ends. This action counteracts the progressive shortening that occurs with each cell division, effectively restoring the cell’s proliferative capacity and delaying the onset of senescence.
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