Final answer:
Telomerase maintains telomere length in germ cells, ensuring genetic stability across generations and has potential in regenerative medicine. Scientists found that telomerase reactivation can reverse signs of aging in mice, indicating its possible use in treating age-related conditions. Telomerase is also a target for cancer therapy because inhibiting its activity could prevent cancer cells from dividing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The significance of telomerase in cells of the germ line lies in its essential role in maintaining the length of telomeres. Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes that protect them from deterioration or fusion with neighboring chromosomes. With each cell division, telomeres shorten, which is associated with aging; however, telomerase can add nucleotides to the ends of telomeres, thus maintaining their length and the cell's genomic integrity. In germ cells, this is crucial because it ensures the integrity of genetic material passed to the next generation. Moreover, Elizabeth Blackburn won the Nobel Prize for her research on telomerase, highlighting its medical significance.
Studies have also revealed the potential of telomerase in regenerative medicine. Reactivation of telomerase in telomerase-deficient mice led to extended telomeres, reduced DNA damage, and improved organ function. This suggests that manipulating telomerase activity might help in treating age-related diseases in humans. However, in cancer cells, telomerase becomes active after telomeres have significantly shortened, contributing to the malignancy's survival. Hence, inhibiting telomerase in cancer therapy could potentially stop the proliferation of cancerous cells.