Molecular Basis of Aging

Description: This quiz covers the molecular basis of aging, including theories, mechanisms, and genetic factors.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: molecular biology genetics aging
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Which theory of aging proposes that aging is caused by the accumulation of damaged molecules and cellular components?

  1. Telomere Theory

  2. Free Radical Theory

  3. Mitochondrial Theory

  4. DNA Damage Theory


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Free Radical Theory suggests that aging is caused by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other free radicals, which can damage cellular components and lead to cellular dysfunction.

The shortening of telomeres with each cell division is associated with which theory of aging?

  1. Telomere Theory

  2. Free Radical Theory

  3. Mitochondrial Theory

  4. DNA Damage Theory


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Telomere Theory proposes that aging is caused by the progressive shortening of telomeres, which are protective DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes.

Which theory of aging focuses on the accumulation of mutations in DNA over time?

  1. Telomere Theory

  2. Free Radical Theory

  3. Mitochondrial Theory

  4. DNA Damage Theory


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The DNA Damage Theory suggests that aging is caused by the accumulation of DNA damage, such as mutations, which can lead to cellular dysfunction and increased risk of age-related diseases.

Which cellular process is primarily responsible for repairing DNA damage?

  1. Transcription

  2. Translation

  3. DNA Replication

  4. DNA Repair


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

DNA repair mechanisms, such as nucleotide excision repair and base excision repair, are responsible for detecting and repairing DNA damage to maintain genomic integrity.

Which cellular structure is responsible for generating energy in the form of ATP?

  1. Nucleus

  2. Mitochondria

  3. Endoplasmic Reticulum

  4. Golgi Apparatus


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Mitochondria are often referred to as the 'powerhouses of the cell' due to their role in generating ATP, the primary energy currency used by cells.

Which theory of aging proposes that aging is caused by the decline in mitochondrial function?

  1. Telomere Theory

  2. Free Radical Theory

  3. Mitochondrial Theory

  4. DNA Damage Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Mitochondrial Theory suggests that aging is caused by the progressive decline in mitochondrial function, leading to reduced energy production and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Which enzyme is responsible for removing telomeric DNA overhangs during DNA replication?

  1. Telomerase

  2. DNA Polymerase

  3. Helicase

  4. Ligase


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Telomerase is a specialized enzyme that adds telomeric DNA sequences to the ends of chromosomes, counteracting the shortening of telomeres during DNA replication.

Which cellular process is responsible for synthesizing new proteins?

  1. Transcription

  2. Translation

  3. DNA Replication

  4. DNA Repair


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Translation is the process by which the genetic information encoded in mRNA is converted into a sequence of amino acids, resulting in the synthesis of new proteins.

Which cellular structure is responsible for packaging and modifying proteins?

  1. Nucleus

  2. Mitochondria

  3. Endoplasmic Reticulum

  4. Golgi Apparatus


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Golgi Apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for transport to their final destinations within the cell or for secretion outside the cell.

Which genetic factor is associated with increased longevity in certain individuals?

  1. Telomere Length

  2. Mitochondrial DNA Mutations

  3. DNA Repair Capacity

  4. Antioxidant Enzyme Levels


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Longer telomeres have been associated with increased longevity in certain individuals, suggesting a protective role of telomere maintenance in aging.

Which genetic factor is associated with increased risk of age-related diseases?

  1. Telomere Length

  2. Mitochondrial DNA Mutations

  3. DNA Repair Capacity

  4. Antioxidant Enzyme Levels


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Mutations in mitochondrial DNA have been linked to increased risk of age-related diseases, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Which genetic factor is associated with enhanced DNA repair capacity?

  1. Telomere Length

  2. Mitochondrial DNA Mutations

  3. DNA Repair Capacity

  4. Antioxidant Enzyme Levels


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Genetic variations that enhance DNA repair capacity have been associated with increased longevity and reduced risk of age-related diseases.

Which genetic factor is associated with reduced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS)?

  1. Telomere Length

  2. Mitochondrial DNA Mutations

  3. DNA Repair Capacity

  4. Antioxidant Enzyme Levels


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Genetic variations that increase the levels of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, have been associated with reduced production of ROS and potentially slower aging.

Which cellular process is responsible for removing damaged proteins from the cell?

  1. Autophagy

  2. Apoptosis

  3. Necrosis

  4. Exocytosis


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Autophagy is the process by which damaged proteins and cellular components are degraded and recycled within the cell, contributing to cellular maintenance and longevity.

Which cellular process is responsible for programmed cell death?

  1. Autophagy

  2. Apoptosis

  3. Necrosis

  4. Exocytosis


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Apoptosis is a regulated form of cell death that occurs in response to various stimuli, such as DNA damage or cellular stress, and plays a role in maintaining tissue homeostasis and preventing the accumulation of damaged cells.

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