Source: Al-dulaimi S. et al., Biogerontology , 2025, 10.1007/s10522-025-10315-x
Purpose of the study
To evaluate the effect of Epitalon – a tetrapeptide with proven anti-aging properties – on telomere length and the activity of enzymes associated with their maintenance ( telomerase and ALT ) in various human cell lines.
Epitalon is known for its telomerase activation and potential to extend cell lifespan. The present study provides quantitative data on the mechanisms of this action in normal and tumor cells.
Study design
-
Type: in vitro experimental study
-
Models: cancer cell lines (21NT, BT474) and normal human fibroblasts and epithelial cells (IBR.3, HMEC)
-
Intervention: daily treatment with Epitalon (0.1 – 1.0 μg/mL) for 4 days (tumor cells) and 3 weeks (normal cells)
-
Assays: qPCR for telomere length, hTERT expression, TRAP assay for telomerase activity, C-circle assay for ALT activity
Main results
Effects on telomeres
-
Epitalon induced dose-dependent telomere elongation in all cell lines tested.
-
In normal cells, the effect occurs after prolonged treatment (3 weeks).
Mechanism of action
-
In normal cells – elongation is associated with ↑ hTERT expression and telomerase activity.
-
In tumor cells – there is no significant increase in telomerase activity, but strong activation of the ALT mechanism is observed.
-
ALT activity was confirmed by C-circle analysis and an increased number of PML bodies.
Selectivity
-
ALT activation was found only in cancer cells, but not in normal ones, suggesting a selective mechanism of action.
Conclusions
-
Epitalon lengthens telomeres through different mechanisms – telomerase in normal cells and ALT in tumor cells.
-
The tetrapeptide stimulates hTERT expression and promotes cellular longevity.
-
Due to the lack of ALT activation in normal cells, Epitalon is considered a safe candidate for anti-aging research.
Practical importance
-
Epitalon can be used in research models to study aging, telomere biology, and cellular longevity.
-
The peptide demonstrates potential as a biomolecular tool for maintaining telomere stability and healthy aging.
