Which cell type contains the most telomerase

• A. Kidney cells
• B. Brain cells
• C. Egg cells
• D. Skin cells

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of telomerase: Telomerase is an enzyme that adds repetitive nucleotide sequences to the ends of chromosomes, known as telomeres, which protect the chromosome from deterioration.
2. Recognize the significance of telomerase in cell division: Cells that divide frequently or have the potential for extensive division typically have higher telomerase activity to maintain telomere length.
3. Identify cell types with high telomerase activity: Germ cells, such as egg cells, have high telomerase activity because they need to maintain telomere length through many divisions to ensure genetic stability across generations.
4. Compare telomerase activity in different cell types: Somatic cells like kidney, brain, and skin cells generally have lower telomerase activity compared to germ cells, as they do not divide as extensively.
5. Conclude that egg cells contain the most telomerase due to their role in reproduction and the need for maintaining telomere length through numerous cell divisions.