Telomere Length Patterns in Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Graakjaer Jesper, Christensen Rikke, Kolvraa Steen, Serakinci Nedime
Primary Institution: Department of Clinical Genetics, Vejle County Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
Hypothesis
The chromosome arm specific differences in telomere length may be actively maintained.
Conclusion
A telomere length pattern exists in mesenchymal stem cells, but it is not actively re-established after destruction by irradiation.
Supporting Evidence
- A stable telomere length pattern exists in both primary and immortalized hMSC's.
- Telomerase activity was confirmed in hMSC-telo1 cells but not in primary hMSC's.
- Irradiation caused profound changes in chromosome specific telomere lengths.
Takeaway
This study found that mesenchymal stem cells have a specific pattern of telomere lengths, but if that pattern is disrupted by radiation, it doesn't return to its original state.
Methodology
Telomere lengths were measured using Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (Q-FISH) and TRAP assay for telomerase activity.
Limitations
The study could not measure telomere length patterns beyond passage 15 due to limitations of the Q-FISH method.
Participant Demographics
Human mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.000
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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