A moderate increase in the activity of the enzyme telomerase in liver cells promotes organ regeneration, scientists from the Stanford University School of Medicine found.. Thus, it is possible to develop drugs to combat cirrhosis and aging of liver cells, according to the online publication for girls and women from 14 to 35 years old Pannochka. net Telomerase is a protein complex that prevents excessive shortening of telomeres, the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. Since telomere DNA does not encode the amino acid sequences of proteins, these regions perform a protective function, preventing gene damage.. Telomere shortening is believed to be one of the causes of cell aging..

Mutations blocking telomerase activity have been shown to cause cirrhosis in rodents and humans.. At the same time, excessive activity of the enzyme is observed in malignant liver cancer cells..

The researchers found that in mice, 3-5% of all liver cells (hepatocytes) produce high amounts of telomerase, but they have less active genes involved in normal metabolism.. These cells are evenly distributed throughout the liver, and when the organ is damaged, they begin to multiply, forming a new tissue..

Scientists hope that the results of the study will help develop drugs that promote accelerated liver healing, protect it from cancer and prolong the proper functioning of the organ during aging..

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