The TERT gene makes a component of the protein telomerase. It has been modified
ID: 282627 • Letter: T
Question
The TERT gene makes a component of the protein telomerase. It has been modified so that it can be conditionally expressed in conditional knockout mice. When this gene is turned off these mice age at a much faster rate than normal mice. These conditional knockout mice also have shorter lifespan. when TERT is turned back on (i.e., telomerase is fully functional) in these advanced aging mice, many of the negative effects are rapidly and dramatically reversed. What can be the possible explanation for this observation? (3 points) Scientists are now exploring the possibility that overexpression of telomerase may reverse the aging effects in humans. Why do you think we should be very cautious about trying such treatment? Your answer should include the types of cells that have high expression of telomerase and why overexpression may not be preferable in all cells. (3 points) a. b.Explanation / Answer
a. TERT, as catalytic component of telomerase, can maintain the length of telomerase by addition of telomeric repeat TTAGGG.
When TERT is turned off, telomerase deficiency will cause reduced telomere length or produce damaged telomere.
When TERT is turned back, it can regain the telomere length due to reverse transcriptase activity.
When the normal telomere is regained, the age-related conditions are reversed.
b. Though it is observed that overexpression of TERT, may enhance lifespan and protect from metabolic decline, its use should be limited and specific to the cell types.
Telomerase activity is associated with cells like reproductive cells, stem cells and certain activated lymphocytes. It is not usually expressed in normal somatic cells. The use of TERT to enhance life span is limited and cannot be overexpressed in all somatic cells, as its de-regulation may lead to oncogenesis.
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