Genetic Variations

Research during the 1930s led to the discovery of an important region in human chromosomes known as the telomere. The enzyme telomerase enables the replacement of the telomere region in a chromosome. Assure Jane Marlow that gene testing or DNA testing has become a widely used tool to identify many disorders and can be a valuable tool for diagnosing conditions early on so that appropriate steps can be taken to prevent further risks of developing diseases. Ensure you cover the following areas:

• What is the function of telomeres with regard to cell division?
• If a patient has an abnormality in telomerase activity, how might this contribute to cancer?