article_snippet: Telomeres are caps at the end of each strand of DNA that protect chromosomes from deterioration.
article_snippet: Shrinking telomeres are a signal that cells are sliding into 'defensive mode', stressful actions that could soon lead to cells' - and to the person or animal's - death.
article_snippet: Shrinking telomeres are a signal that cells are sliding into 'defensive mode', stressful actions that could lead to cells' - and to the person or animal's - death.
article_snippet: Telomeres are caps at the end of each strand of DNA that protect chromosomes from deterioration.
highlights_snippet: These caps at the end of each strand of DNA are regarded as important signs of ageing and stress in many species, including humans .
  