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Multiple Choice
Why do bacteria not need telomerase?
A
Bacteria have a special protein that prevents chromosome shortening.
B
Bacteria have circular chromosomes that do not shorten during replication.
C
Bacteria replicate their DNA without the need for any enzymes.
D
Bacteria use a different enzyme to extend their linear chromosomes.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of telomerase: Telomerase is an enzyme that adds repetitive nucleotide sequences to the ends of linear chromosomes, known as telomeres, to prevent them from shortening during DNA replication.
Recognize the structure of bacterial chromosomes: Bacteria typically have circular chromosomes, unlike the linear chromosomes found in eukaryotes.
Consider the implications of circular chromosomes: Circular chromosomes do not have ends that shorten during replication, eliminating the need for telomerase.
Compare with eukaryotic chromosomes: In eukaryotes, the linear nature of chromosomes necessitates the presence of telomeres and telomerase to maintain chromosome integrity during cell division.
Conclude why bacteria do not need telomerase: Since bacterial chromosomes are circular and do not shorten during replication, they do not require telomerase or any similar mechanism to maintain chromosome length.