Telomere Length Measurement

Telomere length measurement assesses the protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes, called telomeres, which shorten as we age or experience stress. Measuring their length provides insights into cellular aging and overall health. This is typically done by collecting a blood or tissue sample, then analyzing the telomeres using specialized laboratory techniques, such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) or Southern blotting. Longer telomeres generally indicate younger cells and better biological aging, while shorter telomeres may be associated with aging-related diseases and increased health risks. This measurement helps researchers understand aging processes and potential interventions.