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Question
what makes hela cells immortal?
their resistance to radiation
their unique genetic makeup
their resistance to lectin
their ability to replicate uncontrollably
HeLa cells are immortal due to their unique genetic makeup. They contain an enzyme called telomerase, which prevents the shortening of telomeres (the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes) during cell division. This allows the cells to divide indefinitely. Resistance to radiation and lectin are not the primary reasons for their immortality. While their ability to replicate is a characteristic, it is the underlying genetic mechanism (unique genetic makeup with active telomerase) that enables the uncontrolled replication and immortality.
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their unique genetic makeup