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?
A) Telomerase will speed up the rate of cell proliferation.
B) Telomerase eliminates telomere shortening and retards aging.
C) Telomerase shortens telomeres, which delays cellular aging.
D) Telomerase would have no effect on cellular aging.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Telomerase can add repeated DNA sequences to the ends of chromosomes, which can prevent the shortening of telomeres during cell division, therefore extending the life span of the cell. This can potentially retard aging.

Telomere Shortening Puts a Limit on the Number of Times