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Multiple Choice
Which of the following types of cells are affected most by telomere shortening?
A
Prokaryotic cells only.
B
Eukaryotic cells only.
C
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
D
Animal cells only.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes, which protect the chromosome from deterioration.
Recognize that prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria, typically have circular DNA and do not possess telomeres, so they are not affected by telomere shortening.
Identify that eukaryotic cells, which include animal and plant cells, have linear chromosomes with telomeres at the ends.
Consider that telomere shortening occurs during cell division in eukaryotic cells, leading to eventual cell aging and death if not counteracted by the enzyme telomerase.
Conclude that telomere shortening primarily affects eukaryotic cells, as prokaryotic cells do not have telomeres.