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What is the purpose of telomerase?
What is the purpose of telomerase?
Answered
The purpose of telomerase is to extend the telomeres by adding repetitive DNA sequences to the ends of chromosomes. This enzyme is active in certain cell types, such as stem cells and germ cells, and its activity helps to maintain telomere length during cell division, allowing for continued cell proliferation. Telomerase counteracts the natural shortening of telomeres that occurs with each cell division. In most somatic cells, telomerase activity is low or absent, leading to progressive telomere shortening over time. In some cancer cells, telomerase is reactivated, allowing them to divide uncontrollably.
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