Autophagy modulates the mechanism of flow-mediated dilation upstream of telomerase.

ABSTRACT: The non-canonical functions of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), the catalytic subunit of telomerase play a critical role in maintaining microvascular homeostasis utilizing both human and rodent models. Previously, we have demonstrated that intact autophagic flux is necessary for the beneficial effects of TERT to maintain microvascular function and redox status in human resistance arterioles. The purpose of this investigation was to examine (1) whether loss of TERT function in vivo resulted in reductions in autophagy/mitophagy and concomitant changes in the mediator of microvascular FMD; (2) whether restoration of autophagy can reverse this pathological switch in dilator mechanism, reduce shear-induced mitochondrial H₂O₂ production while enhancing NO production

SUBMITTER: Hughes WE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12680695 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature