Cell cycle

Definition

The cell cycle is a series of stages through which a cell passes to grow and divide. It consists of interphase (G1, S, G2) and mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Interphase is the longest part of the cell cycle, where the cell grows and DNA replicates.
2. Mitosis is divided into four phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
3. Cytokinesis is the process that divides the cytoplasm of a parental cell into two daughter cells.
4. Checkpoints in the cell cycle ensure that each stage is completed accurately before moving on to the next stage.
5. Errors in cell cycle regulation can lead to uncontrolled cell division, which is a hallmark of cancer.

Review Questions

• What are the main stages of the cell cycle?
• Which phase of mitosis involves chromosomes aligning at the center of the cell?
• Why are checkpoints important in the cell cycle?

Related terms

Interphase:

The phase where a cell spends most of its life, including G1, S, and G2 phases.

Mitosis: A process of nuclear division in eukaryotic cells that results in two identical daughter nuclei.

Cytokinesis:

The final step in cell division where the cytoplasm divides to form two separate daughter cells.