Unit 3-Molecular Genetics Lesson 3 2.0 Flashcards
What is the Hayflick limit?
The total number of times a cell can divide, which acts as a true biological clock.
What is the period of decline in function of a cell called?
Senescence.
What happens when a cell reaches its Hayflick limit?
The cell begins to enter senescence, leading to a decline in its functioning and the onset of aging.
What is an example of a study related to telomeres and aging?
Dolly the sheep.
How do healthy cells behave with telomeres?
Healthy cells use up the telomeres in their DNA over time and begin cell senescence.
Do cancer cells undergo senescence?
No, cancer cells do not enter senescence like healthy cells.
What enzyme do cancerous cells produce in great quantities?
Telomerase.
What is the effect of telomerase on cancer cells?
It allows cancer cells to make new telomeres and continue dividing indefinitely, making them effectively immortal.
