1. Many gerontologists (biologists whostudy aging) feel that aging is due in large measure to the loss oftelomeres as somatic cells replicate. Adult human cells have thegene for telomerase, but it is inactive in all but the cells thatgive rise to sperm. Some feel that if the gene for telomerase couldbe "turned on" so that it expresses the active enzyme,then we could become immortal. (You can decide if these people aremore like Hernando De Soto, searching for the Fountain of Youth orDon Quixote, tilting at windmills).
A. Tell what telomeres are and why are they important individing cells. What is the worst case scenario for telomere lossin rapidly dividing cells?
B. Describe the molecular events that cause the shortening of telomeres.
C. What is the likelihood that we would become immortal if telomerase could be expressed in our somatic cells? Explain.