Answer this question to the best of your ability:
What research has been conducted on the effects of loving-kindness meditation on telomere length?
Telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten as cells divide, eventually leading to cellular senescence or apoptosis once they become critically short. Shorter telomeres have been associated with increased risk for age-related diseases and decreased life expectancy.

Several studies have investigated the potential impact of loving-kindness meditation on telomere length. One randomized controlled trial conducted by a team of researchers from UCLA found that participants who engaged in eight weeks of loving-kindness meditation had significantly increased telomerase activity, an enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length, compared to the control group.

Another study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research showed that practicing loving-kindness meditation for five weeks resulted in a decrease in cortisol levels and an increase in telomere length among participants experiencing high levels of psychological stress.

While these studies demonstrate promising results, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between loving-kindness meditation and telomere maintenance, as well as the potential long-term effects on overall health and longevity.