TERT activator-1 is a small molecule activator of telomerase reverse transcriptase ( TERT ). TERT activator-1 promotes TERT transcription through the MEK/ERK/AP-1 signaling cascade. TERT activator-1 promotes adult neurogenesis and enhances neuromuscular function. TERT activator-1 reduces cellular senescence and systemic inflammation in aged mice, and can be used in the study of aging.