Telomeres and telomerase in aging and cancer: Lessons learned from experimental model systems

Telomerase is expressed in nearly 90% of human tumors, making it a promising therapeutic target and diagnostic aid. Recently, there has been an explosion of new model systems for studying the roles of telomerase and dysfunctional telomeres in aging and cancer. Here, we describe models that are proving particularly relevant for studying the function and regulation of telomerase as well as the biological consequences of its inhibition. A critical comparison of these models is included, highlighting strengths and weaknesses as they relate to cancer and aging in humans.

Section editors:Nikolina Vlatkovic and Mark Boyd – University of Liverpool, UK