Telomere shortening puts a limit on the number of times a cell can divide. Research has shown that telomerase can extend the life span of cultured human cells. How might adding telomerase affect cellular aging?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Telomerase is an enzyme that adds telomeric DNA sequences to telomeres. The addition of telomerase would eliminate telomere shortening and allow for continued cell division, ultimately leading to a retardation of aging. Studies have shown that telomerase expression can lead to an extension of the lifespan of cells in culture.

Telomere Shortening Puts a Limit on the Number of Times