Analysis of Stress-Induced Telomere Shortening

Telomeres are the protective caps located at the ends of our chromosomes, which consist of repetitive DNA sequences and associated proteins. Telomeres naturally shorten with each cell division, eventually leading to cellular senescence or cell death. However, various external factors, including stress, have been found to accelerate this telomere-shortening process. These stresses include drought, high salinity, extreme temperatures, and others.

Fig. 1 Plant telomere shortening due to oxidative stress.

Lifeasible utilizes state-of-the-art techniques and cutting-edge research methodologies to analyze telomere length dynamics under stress conditions. Our advanced facilities and equipment allow for accurate and precise measurements, ensuring reliable data interpretation.

Determination of Telomere Shortening under Stress

Lifeasible employs several methodologies for telomere length measurement to investigate stress-induced telomere shortening, including, but not limited to, those in the following tables.

Design of Telomere Shortening under Stress

To study stress-induced telomere shortening in plants, we help our customers draw up a well-designed experimental approach to meet their scientific demands.

• First, we establish suitable stress conditions to mimic the environmental factors that are known to induce telomere attrition. These stressors may include high temperature, drought, UV radiation, heavy metal exposure, or pathogen infection.
• Next, we select plant material carefully to ensure that it is homogeneous and representative of the species under investigation. Multiple time points should be chosen to monitor telomere length changes dynamically.
• Last, we choose the appropriate telomere length measurement method, such as qPCR-based analysis, which is optimized for the plant species of interest.

Mechanism Analysis of Telomere Shortening under Stress

• We provide several mechanisms analysis to explain stress-induced telomere shortening, including increased oxidative stress, altered telomerase activity, and changes in telomere-binding proteins.
• Oxidative stress is a prominent feature of stress conditions and can lead to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS can cause DNA damage, including telomere DNA oxidation, accelerating telomere shortening. Under stress conditions, the telomere-binding proteins may undergo modifications or alterations in their expression levels, compromising their ability to maintain telomere integrity. Additionally, the presence of telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA) has also been associated with stress-induced telomere shortening.

Lifeasible, with its expertise and dedication to scientific advancement, is dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of stress-induced telomere shortening. If you are interested in our services or have some questions, please feel free to contact us or make an online inquiry.