Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital engineer an enzymatic stabilization method for the telomerase RNA component (TERC), creating synthetic eTERC molecules that integrate into human stem cells. A single exposure increases telomere length for roughly two months without altering endogenous processes. This targeted telomere extension platform could enable new treatments for telomere biology disorders characterized by accelerated cellular aging.

Key points

• Enzymatic stabilization produces engineered telomerase RNA component (eTERC) for targeted telomere extension.
• A single eTERC exposure extends telomere length in human stem cells equivalent to years of replicative capacity.
• eTERC integration preserves endogenous telomerase regulation, avoiding disruption of normal cell processes.

Why it matters: This strategy opens a new therapeutic avenue for telomere biology disorders by providing a non-disruptive, single-dose boost to cellular health and lifespan potential.

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