What is the significance of telomeres?
Protect chromosome ends
Initiate DNA replication
Code for proteins
Regulate gene expression
Answer
Telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that prevent chromosome ends from fusing with each other or with other chromosomes. They shorten with each cell division, and when they become too short, the cell can no longer divide and enters senescence or apoptosis (programmed cell death). This process helps limit the number of times a cell can divide, which is important for preventing cancer and other diseases.
Carol Greider Knowledge Quest: 30 Questions for the intellectually curious
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