Diseases and the role of telomeres, the protective ends of chromosomes

The DNA in our cells is packed into X-shaped structures called chromosomes. The bits of DNA at the end of each chromosome arm are called “telomeres.” Like those plastic tubes that protect the ends of shoelaces, telomeres protect our chromosomes. But each time a cell divides, its telomeres get a little shorter. When the telomeres are gone, the cell dies. Our cells have enzymes that help maintain our telomeres. The main enzyme is called telomerase. Having too much of this enzyme may keep cells from dying. This can lead to cancer. Having too little telomerase is linked to premature aging and other conditions. In the first part of this project, researchers are attempting to measure telomere length in BioVU samples. In the second part of the study, they are looking for changes in the genes for these enzymes. They will then search for diseases linked to these gene changes. These findings may suggest ways to prevent or treat some diseases.