Final answer:
The primary function of telomerase in cancer cells is to maintain the length of their telomeres, allowing them to divide without aging or destruction. The correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary function of telomerase in cancer cells is C) Maintaining the length of telomeres. Telomerase becomes active in cancer cells after their telomeres have shortened, which typically occurs with cell division. As cancer cells divide uncontrollably, telomerase helps them maintain their telomeres, thereby avoiding the normal cellular aging process that would typically limit cell division.
This activity is crucial for the continuous proliferation of cancer cells. Therapeutic strategies sometimes target the inhibition of telomerase in cancer cells with the aim of preventing further cell division and tumor growth.