Review Article

Physical Activity and Telomere Biology: Exploring the Link with Aging-Related Disease Prevention

Figure 1

The major factors leading to age-related disease or cancer phenotypes are shown. Interaction of genetic and environmental factors can lead to varying levels of DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation, all of which can contribute to shortened or dysfunctional telomeres, depending on the extent of damage. Typically-shortened telomeres can result in cell cycle arrest, tumor suppression, and loss of functional tissue via senescence or apoptosis/necrosis and an aging phenotype. At the extreme, DNA damage (e.g., gene mutations) and subsequent activation of oncogenes, such as TERT and telomerase activity, can lead to age-related cancer. Becoming or remaining physically active may prevent or delay the onset of many age-related diseases and even some cancers, potentially through protection of telomeres.
790378.fig.001