Int J Biol Sci 2015; 11(3):316-323. doi:10.7150/ijbs.10528 This issue Cite

Review

Role of TERRA in the Regulation of Telomere Length

Caiqin Wang, Li Zhao, Shiming Lu

Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, China, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Xueshi Road 1#, Hangzhou 310006, China

Citation:
Wang C, Zhao L, Lu S. Role of TERRA in the Regulation of Telomere Length. Int J Biol Sci 2015; 11(3):316-323. doi:10.7150/ijbs.10528. https://www.ijbs.com/v11p0316.htm
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Abstract

Graphic abstract

Telomere dysfunction is closely associated with human diseases such as cancer and ageing. Inappropriate changes in telomere length and/or structure result in telomere dysfunction. Telomeres have been considered to be transcriptionally silent, but it was recently demonstrated that mammalian telomeres are transcribed into telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA). TERRA, a long non-coding RNA, participates in the regulation of telomere length, telomerase activity and heterochromatinization. The correct regulation of telomere length may be crucial to telomeric homeostasis and functions. Here, we summarize recent advances in our understanding of the crucial role of TERRA in the maintenance of telomere length, with focus on the variety of mechanisms by which TERRA is involved in the regulation of telomere length. This review aims to enable further understanding of how TERRA-targeted drugs can target telomere-related diseases.

Keywords: TERRA, telomere length, telomerase, HDR, ALT, protection of chromosome end


Citation styles

APA
Wang, C., Zhao, L., Lu, S. (2015). Role of TERRA in the Regulation of Telomere Length. International Journal of Biological Sciences, 11(3), 316-323. https://doi.org/10.7150/ijbs.10528.

ACS
Wang, C.; Zhao, L.; Lu, S. Role of TERRA in the Regulation of Telomere Length. Int. J. Biol. Sci. 2015, 11 (3), 316-323. DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.10528.

NLM
Wang C, Zhao L, Lu S. Role of TERRA in the Regulation of Telomere Length. Int J Biol Sci 2015; 11(3):316-323. doi:10.7150/ijbs.10528. https://www.ijbs.com/v11p0316.htm

CSE
Wang C, Zhao L, Lu S. 2015. Role of TERRA in the Regulation of Telomere Length. Int J Biol Sci. 11(3):316-323.

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