The ‘Zombie cells’ are still alive but can’t function, and they accumulate as we age
According to a study published in Nature Structural and Molecular Biology, damage to your chromosome ends can cause \”zombie\” cells that are still alive, but cannot function.
When cells are preparing to divide, DNA is tightly wrapped around proteins to create chromosomes. These chromosomes provide support and structure for the genetic material. Telomeres, which are repeating DNA stretches at the ends of chromosomes, form a protective cap that prevents damage to genetic material.
Telomeres, however, shorten with each cell division. As you age, telomeres will become shorter as your cells divide more.
Source:
https://www.sciencealert.com/zombie-cells-are-still-alive-but-can-t-function-and-they-accumulate-with-age
