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Telomeres protect the integrity of chromosomes by preventing degradation and fusion with other chromosomes. They act as a cap at the end of each chromosome, preserving the coding regions from damage during DNA replication. Over time, as cells divide, the telomeres naturally shorten, which limits the number of divisions a cell can undergo. Once the telomeres reach a critical length, the cell will stop dividing, enter a state of senescence, or undergo apoptosis. This mechanism is essential for regulating cellular lifespan and preventing the accumulation of mutations that could lead to cancer or other diseases. Therefore, telomeres play a crucial role in maintaining genomic stability and ensuring proper cellular function over time.
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BNO Team