Which of the following describes the primary role of telomerase in cellular biology?
A Repair damaged DNA strands following replication errors
B Extend telomeres to prevent progressive chromosomal shortening
C Initiate synthesis of RNA primers during DNA replication
D Facilitate DNA unwinding by breaking hydrogen bonds between bases
Solution
Correct Answer: Option B
- Telomerase is an enzyme that adds repetitive nucleotide sequences to the ends of chromosomes, known as telomeres.
- This process prevents the progressive shortening of chromosomes that occurs during DNA replication.
- Without telomerase, critical genetic information could be lost, leading to cellular aging and death.
Therefore, its primary role is to maintain chromosome integrity by extending telomeres.