TELOMERES Meaning and
Definition
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Telomeres are repetitive sequences of DNA at the ends of chromosomes that play a crucial role in preserving the integrity and stability of genetic material during cell division. They consist of short tandem DNA repeats and associated proteins that protect the chromosome ends from deterioration, fusion, and degradation.
The primary function of telomeres is to act as protective caps, similar to the plastic tips at the ends of shoelaces, preventing the genetic material from fraying or sticking to other chromosomes. During each round of cell division, the DNA replication process fails to fully copy the telomeric sequences, resulting in gradual shortening or erosion of the telomeres. This process serves as a form of biological clock, limiting the number of times a cell can divide and preventing unlimited growth and potential genomic instability.
Telomeres are essential for maintaining genomic stability and cell viability. Once the telomeres become critically short, they trigger cellular senescence, leading to a state of irreversible growth arrest or cell death. Telomere dysfunction has been associated with various age-related diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and premature aging syndromes.
Telomerase is an enzyme that can add telomeric DNA to the ends of chromosomes, counteracting the shortening process. While active primarily in embryonic development and stem cells, telomerase activity is typically low in most adult cells, contributing to the gradual telomere attrition. Researchers have shown a growing interest in studying telomeres and telomerase, as they hold potential therapeutic targets for age-related diseases and aging itself.
Common Misspellings for TELOMERES
- relomeres
- felomeres
- gelomeres
- yelomeres
- 6elomeres
- 5elomeres
- twlomeres
- tslomeres
- tdlomeres
- trlomeres
- t4lomeres
- t3lomeres
- tekomeres
- tepomeres
- teoomeres
- telimeres
- telkmeres
- tellmeres
- telpmeres
- nylometres
- Telomones
Etymology of TELOMERES
The word "telomeres" is derived from the Greek words "telos", meaning "end", and "meros", meaning "part". "Telomeres" can be translated to "end parts" or "end segments". This term was coined in the 1930s by Hermann Muller to describe and study the protective structures found at the ends of chromosomes.
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