The latent cytomegalovirus decreases telomere length by microcompetition

Abstract

Reduced telomere length has been associated

with aging and age-related diseases. Latent infection with

the Cytomegalovirus (CMV) induces telomere shortening

in the infected cells. Latent CMV infection may cause

reduced telomere length via GABP transcription factor

deficiency, according to the Microcompetition Theory.

Microcompetition and viral-induced transcription factor

deficiency is important since most people harbor a latent

viral infection.