Researchers at UT MD Anderson find small molecule compound restoring youthful TERT levels to reduce aging signs, potentially treating age-related diseases.

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have discovered a small molecule compound that restores "youthful" levels of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), reducing aging signs and symptoms in preclinical models. Restoring TERT levels reduced cellular senescence, tissue inflammation, and improved memory and neuromuscular function. If confirmed in clinical studies, the team's findings could lead to treatments for age-related diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, heart disease, and cancer.