Cyclin

Definition

Cyclin is a type of protein that regulates the cell cycle by controlling key transitions through different phases, such as from G1 to S (DNA synthesis) phase and G2 to M (mitosis) phase. Its concentration varies cyclically within the cell, increasing and decreasing in order to prompt or inhibit the progression to the next stage.

Related terms

Cell Cycle: The series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication.

Mitosis: A part of the cell cycle where replicated chromosomes are separated into two new nuclei, leading to cell division.

Checkpoint: A control mechanism in the cell cycle that ensures each phase is completed correctly before proceeding to the next phase