Concept explainers
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
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.
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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Chapter 6 Solutions
Loose-leaf Version for What is Life? A Guide to Biology
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