A meta-analytic review of the effects of mindfulness meditation on telomerase activity

Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2014 Apr:42:45-8. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.12.017. Epub 2014 Jan 7.

Abstract

The enzyme telomerase, through its influence on telomere length, is associated with health and mortality. Four pioneering randomized control trials, including a total of 190 participants, provided information on the effect of mindfulness meditation on telomerase. A meta-analytic effect size of d=0.46 indicated that mindfulness meditation leads to increased telomerase activity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. These results suggest the need for further large-scale trials investigating optimal implementation of mindfulness meditation to facilitate telomerase functioning.

Keywords: Meditation; Meta-analysis; Mindfulness; Telomerase; Telomere.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Meditation / methods*
  • Mindfulness / methods*
  • Stress, Psychological
  • Telomerase / physiology*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Telomerase