Telomeres have been a subject of genetic research since the 1930s. They play a crucial role in cancer biology, as they influence both cellular senescence and genomic stability. In cancer cells, dysfunctional telomeres can lead to chromosomal fusions and, through deregulation of telomerase, allow replication of mutated chromosomes that might otherwise lead to apoptosis. Research is now focused on improving telomere-based cancer cell detection and developing potential therapies that inhibit telomerase activity in cancerous cells. Telomere research is crucial in understanding the molecular mechanisms influencing tumor growth and invasiveness because of the central role played by telomeres in various cancer types. Several telomerase inhibitors and immunotherapy treatments are in pre-clinical or clinical development. Research on the role of telomeres in oncogenesis has made significant strides, but obstacles remain, including a lack of high-resolution structural understanding, inadequate preclinical models, and concern over potential side effects. Even so, the current path of telomere research holds promise.
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