Telomeres and telomerase: A dual role in hepatocarcinogenesis

Ande Satyanarayana, Michael P. Manns, K. Lenhard Rudolph

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

127 Scopus citations

Abstract

Telomere shortening limits the proliferative capacity of primary human cells and restrains the regenerative capacity of organ systems during chronic diseases and aging. Telomere shortening apparently has a dual role in tumor development and progression. On the one hand, it induces chromosomal instability and the initiation of cancer; on the other hand, tumor progression requires stabilization of telomeres. The predominant mechanism of telomere stabilization in tumor cells is the activation of the telomere-synthesizing enzyme telomerase. The potential use of telomerase activators for the treatment of regenerative disorders will ultimately depend on their effects on tumorigenesis. This review focuses on the role of telomere shortening and telomerase in carcinogenesis with a special focus on hepatocellular carcinoma.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)276-283
Number of pages8
JournalHepatology
Volume40
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2004
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Hepatology

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