[Campbell Biology P.377] Which of the following statements about telomeres and DNA replicati... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements about telomeres and DNA replication are correct? Select all that apply

  • A: Telomeres are found at the ends of linear eukaryotic chromosomes and protect genes from shortening.
  • B: Prokaryotic chromosomes, being circular, do not experience the shortening issue that linear eukaryotic chromosomes face during replication.
  • C: Telomeres primarily consist of protein sequences that prevent DNA from unraveling.
  • D: DNA polymerase cannot complete the 5' ends of daughter DNA strands due to the absence of a 3' end for nucleotide addition after primer removal.
  • E: Telomeres contain essential genes that are replicated faithfully to ensure proper cell function.

Explanation

A is correct because telomeres are indeed at the ends of linear eukaryotic chromosomes and help protect against gene shortening. B is correct as circular prokaryotic chromosomes do not face the same end-replication problem. D is correct as the lack of a 3' end for DNA polymerase is the fundamental reason for telomere shortening. C is incorrect because telomeres are DNA sequences, not primarily protein sequences. E is incorrect because telomeres do not contain genes; they are composed of repetitive non-coding sequences.