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Telomere

Meaning

A telomere is a distinct region of highly repetitive non-coding DNA sequences and associated proteins found at the very ends of linear eukaryotic chromosomes, functioning as a critical protective cap. The primary biological role of the telomere is to safeguard the underlying genetic material from degradation, unnecessary repair, or fusion with neighboring chromosomes during the process of cellular replication. Telomere length is widely recognized in longevity research as a robust biomarker of cellular aging and overall biological health, as they progressively shorten with age and in response to persistent oxidative stress.