> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.abi.am/abi-omicss-guide-2021/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.abi.am/abi-omicss-guide-2021/week-2/molecular-biology/telomeres-and-telomerase.md).

# Telomeres and Telomerase

**Telomeres** are the protective DNA-protein complexes found at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes. They protect the natural ends of linear chromosomes. **Telomerase** is a specific telomere-terminal transferase necessary for the replication of chromosome ends in single-celled organisms.

To explore this topic, read [this article](https://www.khanacademy.org/science/biology/dna-as-the-genetic-material/dna-replication/a/telomeres-telomerase), and return here afterward.

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