Telomeres are the physical ends of linear eukaryotic chromosomes. They are specialized nucleoprotein complexes that have important functions, primarily in the protection, replication, and stabilization of the chromosome ends. Other links from indicated topics are embedded in the text. Telomerase is the reverse transcriptase responsible for the extension of telomeric repeat sequences in most species studied. If telomerase activity is diminished or absent, telomeres will shorten.
Shortened telomeres appear to lead to cell senescence.
Eventually telomeric sequences can shorten to the point where they are not long enough to support the telomere-protein complex protecting the ends and the chromosomes become unstable. These shortened ends become 'sticky' and promote chromosome rearrangements. Some rearrangements may contribute to the development of cancers. Telomere Rearrangement, Deletion, etc. See TelDB's literature citations query page to prepare more specific queries.