Language
English
Publication Date
3-1-2025
Journal
Cell & Bioscience
DOI
10.1186/s13578-025-01367-0
PMID
40025596
PMCID
PMC11871756
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
3-1-2025
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Abstract
The telomerase complex consists of a protein component (TERT), which has reverse transcriptase activity, and an RNA component (TERC), which serves as a template for telomere synthesis. Evidence is rapidly accumulating regarding the non-canonical functions of these components in both normal or diseased cells. An oligonucleotide-based drug, the first telomerase inhibitor, secured FDA approval in June 2024. We recently summarized the non-canonical functions of TERT in viral infections and cancer. In this review, we expand on these non-canonical functions of TERC beyond telomere maintenance. Specifically, we explore TERC's roles in cellular aging and senescence, immune regulation, genetic diseases, human cancer, as well as involvement in viral infections and host interactions. Finally, we discuss a transcription product of telomere repeats, TERRA, and explore strategies for targeting TERC as a therapeutic approach.
Keywords
Telomerase, TERT, TERC, Non-coding RNAs, Telomeres, Non-canonical functions
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Cao, Chongwen; Gong, Weiyi; Shuai, Yuanlong; et al., "Canonical and Non-canonical Functions of the Non-coding RNA Component (Terc) of Telomerase Complex" (2025). Faculty and Staff Publications. 4891.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/4891
Included in
Health Services Research Commons, Medical Cell Biology Commons, Medical Molecular Biology Commons, Medical Specialties Commons, Microbiology Commons