Telomerase RNA template region (TERC template region)

The **telomerase RNA template region** is a short, single-stranded segment within the telomerase RNA component (commonly TERC or hTR in humans) which acts as the template for synthesis of telomeric DNA repeats at chromosome ends[2][4][7][6]. This region specifies the sequence copied by the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) during the extension of telomeres, typically encoding for a repeat complementary to the organism’s telomeric sequence (e.g., CCCTAA for the mammalian TTAGGG repeat)[2][4][7][1]. The **template region** lies within the highly structured core domain of TERC/hTR, often adjacent to a pseudoknot structure essential for correct folding and catalytic activity[1][5]. Mutations or disruptions in this region impair telomerase function and are linked to diseases such as dyskeratosis congenita and aplastic anemia[5]. The template region, while not an enzyme or receptor itself, is an essential and specific nucleic acid target in cancer therapy and telomere biology disorders, serving as the blueprint for telomere repeat addition and as a potential regulatory site for drug action[2][4][6].

Other names

Telomerase RNA templatehTR template regionTERC templateTelomerase RNA component template

Direct inhibition of template region hybridization (antisense oligonucleotides) Competitive inhibition of telomeric DNA priming Disruption of RNA-protein assembly (structural inhibition)