Telomeres, the protective caps of chromosomes, shorten during cell division, a process accelerated by stress. Once telomere length drops below a critical threshold, cell death and senescence occur. Senescent cells, unable to divide, continue to secrete pro-inflammatory molecules, linking accelerated telomere shortening to a shorter lifespan and diseases like coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and mental disorders such as depression. Chronic stress plays a crucial role in this process, shedding light on the intricate connection between stress, immune aging, and mental health.
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