A computational model for telomere-dependent cell-replicative aging

Telomere shortening provides a molecular basis for the Hayflick limit. Recent data suggest that telomere shortening also influence mitotic rate. We propose a stochastic growth model of this phenomena, assuming that cell division in each time interval is a random process which probability decreases linearly with telomere shortening. Computer simulations of the proposed stochastic telomere-regulated model provides good approximation of the qualitative growth of cultured human mesenchymal stem cells.

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2008
• Where: BIOSYSTEMS
• Authors: R. D. Portugal, M. G. P. Land, Benar Fux Svaiter
• Keywords: BIOSYSTEMS 2007, BIOSYSTEMS 2008, Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Stochastic Growth Model, Telomere