Much the way the caps on the ends of a shoelace prevent it from fraying, telomeres - regions of repetitive DNA sequences and a protein structure - protect the tips of chromosomes from damage. Every ...

Our genome is organized into chromosomes, which are shaped like little X's. Every time a cell divides, the genome has to be replicated, and there are protective caps called telomeres on the ends of ...

Elizabeth Blackburn is one of the world’s leading molecular biologists, with a deep understanding of cellular life and human aging. Her research has outlined some of the key factors in controlling ...

O'Sullivan hypothesizes that ADP-ribose affects telomere integrity by disrupting a protective structure called shelterin that safeguards telomeres, but more research is needed to confirm this.

In the quest to unlock the secrets of aging and longevity, telomeres have emerged as key players. These protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes play a critical role in cellular aging. With each ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes, act much like the plastic tips of shoelaces, preventing our DNA ...