Esther Priel, Emeritus

We have developed new small molecules that increase telomerase
expression and in vitro activity in various human and mouse cells and in
vivo in animal models. These compounds serve us today as excellent tools
to investigate the involvement of the enzyme telomerase in several main
areas: neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS and Alzheimer's - what is the
role of the enzyme in neurons, and how does its activation enable neurons
to overcome the damage; fertility- the role of the enzyme in the fertility of
males and females and whether infertility conditions can be improved by
temporary activation of the enzyme; heart disease- a clear link has been
found between telomere lengths and heart disease. We investigate the
role of telomerase in the heart and whether the heart can be protected
from stress by activating the enzyme.

Laboratory location: Faculty of Health Sciences, M6 Building, room 225.

Contact: priel@bgu.ac.il