What is Life? A Guide to Biology with Physiology
What is Life? A Guide to Biology with Physiology
3rd Edition
ISBN: 9781464157745
Author: Jay Phelan
Publisher: W. H. Freeman
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Chapter 6, Problem 1SA
Summary Introduction

To analyze:

Why therapy that rebuilds the telomeres would not be a good way to achieve “eternal youth”.

Introduction:

The shortening of the telomere at each cycle of DNA replication is one of the factors that lead to cell death.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Cell death is very much a part of the natural functioning of a multicellular organism. This, however, leads to aging. It is known that the shortening of the telomeres of a chromosome beyond a certain point leads to cell death. However, if an attempt is made to maintain the length of telomeres by rebuilding them, the cells can turn cancerous. People who undergo such a therapy will have increased risk of cancer.

Conclusion

Rebuilding of the telomeres can make the cells become cancerous. this kind of therapy increases the risk of death by cancer. Therefore, it is not a good solution to the quest for “eternal youth”.

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Part A 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? Telomerase eliminates telomere shortening and retards aging. Telomerase would have no effect on cellular aging. Telomerase shortens telomeres, which delays cellular aging. Telomerase will speed up the rate of cell proliferation. Submit Request Answer
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Describe what a telomere is, and explain its role in cancer cells’ unlimited ability to divide.
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