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Telomere Biology

Meaning

Telomere biology is the scientific study of the structure, function, and maintenance of telomeres, which are repetitive DNA sequences and associated protein complexes located at the ends of linear chromosomes. Telomeres serve a crucial protective function, preventing chromosome degradation and fusion, and are intimately linked to cellular aging and longevity. Their progressive shortening with each cell division acts as a mitotic clock, signaling replicative senescence.