What does telomerase do to extend the template strand?

Study for the DNA Replication and DNA Storage Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

What does telomerase do to extend the template strand?

Explanation:
Telomerase maintains chromosome ends by extending the 3' telomeric overhang with repetitive DNA sequences. It carries its own RNA molecule that serves as a template, guiding the synthesis of DNA repeats to the end of the chromosome. In other words, it adds a short, repeating DNA sequence to prevent shortening during replication. This is why the best description is that telomerase adds a short, repeating DNA sequence. It doesn’t remove nucleotides, and while it uses RNA as a template to build DNA, its primary action is adding repeats, not simply converting RNA to DNA.

Telomerase maintains chromosome ends by extending the 3' telomeric overhang with repetitive DNA sequences. It carries its own RNA molecule that serves as a template, guiding the synthesis of DNA repeats to the end of the chromosome. In other words, it adds a short, repeating DNA sequence to prevent shortening during replication. This is why the best description is that telomerase adds a short, repeating DNA sequence. It doesn’t remove nucleotides, and while it uses RNA as a template to build DNA, its primary action is adding repeats, not simply converting RNA to DNA.

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