Telomere Health refers to the maintenance of the optimal length and structural integrity of telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that safeguard genetic material during cell division. Telomere shortening is a well-established biomarker of cellular aging and is associated with reduced tissue function and increased risk of age-related disease. Prioritizing telomere health through lifestyle and clinical interventions is a core strategy in geroscience and longevity medicine, aimed at preserving cellular function and extending the replicative capacity of tissues.
Origin
The term is derived from ‘telomere,’ a biological structure whose discovery and function earned a Nobel Prize. The word itself comes from the Greek telos (end) and meros (part). The addition of ‘health’ signifies the clinical focus on preserving this structure as a key determinant of biological age and overall vitality.
Mechanism
Telomere health is maintained primarily by the enzyme telomerase, which adds repetitive DNA sequences to the telomere ends, counteracting the shortening that occurs with each cell division. The mechanism involves protecting telomerase activity and reducing the rate of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, which accelerate telomere erosion. Hormonal balance, particularly optimal levels of sex steroids and growth hormone, plays a supportive role by reducing systemic stress and promoting overall cellular maintenance and repair processes.
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