Telomeres, biotechnology, and health seminar

Dr. Harley will talk about telomere biology, careers in biotechnology, and ongoing projects at Telome Health, including a voluntary “norms” research study.

Abstract
Telomeres, the protective tips at chromosome ends, are essential for stability of chromosomes, proper cell division, and life. They are also one part of the genome that dynamically changes with time due to aging, lifestyle and environmental factors.

Telomeres are maintained in immortal cells (germline and tumor cells) by the enzyme telomerase, which synthesizes telomeric DNA, but in most tissues, there is insufficient telomerase for telomere maintenance, and telomeres shorten with time.

Individuals vary significantly in the length of telomeres at birth, and genetics, chronic infections, diet, stress, and other factors can influence the rate of telomere loss through the decades. Critically short telomeres are
causally linked to cellular aging, disease, and ultimately death.


Because of this link to a fundamental cause of aging in all tissues, telomere length as a diagnostic marker could be transformative in personalized medicine. Instead of looking for markers of existing disease, a “TeloTest” allows individuals and their doctors to monitor health on a whole-body level, and potentially see early warning signs (a check engine light) before disease sets in.

Volunteer for a research study: Telomeres & Health
Do you live in the San Francisco Bay area, are in good health and between the ages of 20-79?Would you like to know your own telomere length - a general biomarker
of overall health?

Telome Health Inc., a Menlo Park biotechnology firm, is researching age-based average telomere length in Bay Area residents. The study involves completing a 30 minute online health survey, and visiting our offices for 3 separate fasting blood draw and saliva collections over a twelve month period.

Participants will be reimbursed for their time with $20 upon completion of each blood draw. They will also have the option to receive a report of their telomere length, and educational information about telomeres and health.