Telomerase is an enzyme that adds repetitive nucleotide sequences to the ends of chromosomes, known as telomeres. Telomeres protect the chromosome ends from deterioration or fusion with neighboring chromosomes. In most somatic (non-reproductive) cells, telomerase activity is low or absent, leading to gradual shortening of telomeres with each cell division. This shortening is associated with cellular aging and eventual cell senescence or apoptosis (programmed cell death).
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