Telomeres in T and B cells.
Telomeres are the structures at the ends of linear chromosomes. In mammalian cells, they consist of hexanucleotide (TTAGGG) repeats, together with many associated proteins. In the absence of a compensatory mechanism, dividing cells undergo gradual telomere erosion until a critical degree of shortening results in chromosomal abnormalities and cell death or senescence. For T and B cells, the ability to undergo extensive cell division and clonal expansion is crucial for effective immune function. This article describes our current understanding of telomere-length regulation in lymphocytes and its implications for immune function.
Hodes
Richard J
RJ
National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA. Richard_Hodes@nih.gov
Hathcock
Karen S
KS
Weng
Nan-ping
NP
D000375:Aging; D000818:Animals; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D002455:Cell Division; D006412:Hematopoietic Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D007110:Immunity, Active; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D019098:Telomerase / Q000032:analysis / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000235:genetics; D016615:Telomere / Q000737:chemistry / Q000276:immunology*
D019098:Telomerase