Telomerase and cancer: time to move from a promising target to a clinical reality

Keith, W.N. , Evans, T.R.J. and Glasspool, R.M. (2001) Telomerase and cancer: time to move from a promising target to a clinical reality. Journal of Pathology, 195(4), pp. 404-414. (doi: 10.1002/path.1001)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/path.1001

Abstract

The past 25 years have seen unparalleled advances in our understanding of the molecular basis of cancer. As a result, novel molecular targets have been identified that provide great potential for the development of new cancer diagnostics and therapies. Four key features of cancer cells distinguish them from their normal counterparts: loss of cell-cycle regulation, loss of control over invasion and metastasis, failure of apoptotic mechanisms, and bypass of senescence. This review examines our understanding of the bypass of senescence and the process of immortalization during carcinogenesis. In addition, the realistic opportunities for telomerase in cancer diagnostics and the challenges faced in clinical trial design for telomerase therapeutics are discussed.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Evans, Professor Jeff and Keith, Professor Nicol
Authors: Keith, W.N., Evans, T.R.J., and Glasspool, R.M.
Subjects:R Medicine > RC Internal medicine > RC0254 Neoplasms. Tumors. Oncology (including Cancer)
R Medicine > RB Pathology
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cancer Sciences
Journal Name:Journal of Pathology
ISSN:0022-3417

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