Can telomeres be lengthened?

Yes, telomeres can be lengthened, though this typically involves activating the enzyme telomerase, which adds repetitive DNA sequences to the ends of chromosomes. In laboratory settings, telomerase has been successfully activated to extend the length of telomeres in cultured cells. However, lengthening telomeres in humans is more complex and carries risks, including the potential for promoting uncontrolled cell growth, which could lead to cancer. Research into therapies that could safely lengthen telomeres or delay their shortening is ongoing.