Human population studies have correlated decreased telomere length in peripheral blood leukocytes with higher mortality rates in individuals who are more than 60 years old; however, a recent large cohort study found no such correlation but did report a positive link between telomere length and years of healthy life45,46. By contrast, a recent study in centenarians and their offspring found a positive link between telomere length and longevity; in particular, those with longer telomeres had an overall improved health profile (with decreased age-associated disease and better cognitive function and lipid profiles) relative to controls47. Corroborating these observations in humans are recent studies showing evidence, albeit preliminary, that telomeres are also relevant to normal ageing in mice (Box 3).
