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DNA replication has high or low fidelity? What does this mean in terms of faulty replication? Our DNA repair mechanisms have what accuracy? What is the role of telomeres in DNA fidelity?

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Final answer:

DNA replication has high fidelity, with a low error rate. DNA repair mechanisms have high accuracy and play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of genetic information. Telomeres protect the integrity of the DNA molecule by preventing the loss of genetic information during replication.

Step-by-step explanation:

DNA replication is a highly accurate process, with high fidelity. This means that it has a low error rate and is capable of faithfully duplicating the DNA molecule. However, mistakes can occasionally occur during replication, such as a DNA polymerase inserting a wrong base. These mistakes, if not corrected, can lead to serious consequences, such as cancer.

DNA repair mechanisms have high accuracy and play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of genetic information. Repair mechanisms correct the mistakes made during DNA replication, preventing the accumulation of errors and mutations in the DNA.

Telomeres, which are repetitive DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes, play a vital role in DNA fidelity. They protect the integrity of the DNA molecule by preventing the loss of genetic information during replication. Telomeres act as a buffer, allowing the replication machinery to fully duplicate the ends of the chromosomes without losing any important genetic material.

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