Abstract: Methods of reliably quantifying telomere length in cells or tissues that have been formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) samples by quantitative polymerase chain reaction protocol and kits for use with such various methods are provided. The methods of the present invention may be used to predetermine an individual's response to treatment with a telomerase inhibitor, a telomere damaging agent or a telomerase activator.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods for determining the level of telomerase reverse transcriptase activity in mammalian cells. The method comprises binding the telomerase reverse transcriptase obtained from the mammalian cells to a solid support by contacting the telomerase with an anti-telomerase antibody bound to a solid support and then measuring the level of activity of the bound telomerase in a reaction where the telomerase can extend a first primer to produce an extension product and qualitatively or quantitatively detecting the extension product.

Abstract: Methods of reliably quantifying telomere length in cells or tissues that have been formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) samples by quantitative polymerase chain reaction protocol and kits for use with such various methods are provided. The methods of the present invention may be used to predetermine an individual's response to treatment with a telomerase inhibitor, a telomere damaging agent or a telomerase activator.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions for increasing telomerase activity in cells. Such compositions include pharmaceutical formulations. The methods and compositions are useful for treating diseases subject to treatment by an increase in telomerase activity in cells or tissue of a patient. They are also useful for enhancing replicative capacity of cells in culture, as in ex vivo cell therapy and for enhancing proliferation of stem and progenitor cells.

Abstract: Methods for determining the level of telomerase reverse transcriptase activity in mammalian cells are disclosed. A preferred measuring device is a microfluidic device that includes a spectrophotometer, a fluorescent detector, a fluorescence polarization detector or a scintillation counting device.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods for determining the level of telomerasc reverse transcriptase activity in mammalian cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and compositions for increasing telomerase activity in cells. Such compositions include pharmaceutical formulations. The methods and compositions are useful for treating diseases subject to treatment by an increase in telomerase activity in cells or tissue of a patient. They are also useful for enhancing replicative capacity of cells in culture, as in ex vivo cell therapy and for enhancing proliferation of stem and progenitor cells.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods for determining the efficacy of treatment with telomerase modulators in mammals by the analysis of the level of telomerase reverse transcriptase activity in mammalian hair follicle cells.