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Chapter 3: Problem 13

What are the functions of centromeres and telomeres in cell division?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Centromeres serve as attachment sites for spindle fibers during cell division, ensuring accurate segregation of genetic material and equal distribution of chromosomes to daughter cells. Telomeres protect the ends of chromosomes from degradation or fusion, ensuring genetic stability and playing a role in determining the number of times a cell can divide.

Step by step solution

01

Centromeres

Centromeres are regions in the chromosomes which serve as the attachment sites for spindle fibers during cell division. These spindle fibers help the chromosomes to align at the cell equator during metaphase, and assist in the separation of sister chromatids during anaphase. Consequently, accurate segregation of genetic material is ensured, and each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes.
02

Telomeres

Telomeres are the repetitive nucleotide sequences located at the ends of chromosomes. Their primary function is to protect the ends of chromosomes from degradation or fusion with other chromosomes. During cell division, the DNA replication machinery cannot fully replicate the very ends of linear DNA molecules, which results in gradual loss of genetic information. Telomeres act as protective caps, preventing this loss and ensuring genetic stability. Moreover, telomeres also play a role in determining the number of times a cell can divide, as the gradual shortening of telomeres with each division eventually leads to cell senescence.

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