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Telomere
01
a repetitive DNA sequence at the end of a linear chromosome, protecting it from deterioration during replication, and playing a role in cellular aging and cancer development
telomere
n
Example
The telomere's repetitive sequence, TTAGGG in humans, prevents the loss of essential genetic information with each round of cell division.
Think of telomeres as the plastic tips on the ends of a phone charger cable that keep it from wearing out.
As cells divide, telomeres gradually shorten, acting as a biological clock that limits the number of divisions.
The study of telomeres has implications for understanding the aging process and developing potential therapies for age-related diseases.
