Biology Cell Cycle and Mitosis

The set of stages that occur between the time when a eukaryotic cell divides and the resulting cells also divide.

The period of the cell cycle where the cell grows, carries out its normal functions, and prepares for division. It is divided into three phases: G1, S, and G2.

The first phase of interphase where the cell grows, recovers from division, and gathers materials for DNA replication.

The second phase of interphase where DNA replication occurs, resulting in two identical copies of the cell's DNA.

The final phase of interphase where the cell synthesizes proteins needed for cell division and prepares for mitosis.

The process where the duplicated chromosomes are separated into two identical daughter nuclei. It is divided into four phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

The process where the cytoplasm divides, creating two separate daughter cells.

A stage where cells are not actively preparing for division but functioning normally.

Genes that normally promote cell division and growth, but when mutated can become oncogenes causing uncontrolled cell proliferation.

Mutated versions of proto-oncogenes that contribute to cancer by constantly promoting cell division, even without growth signals.

Genes that normally suppress cell division and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death). They act as a brake on the cell cycle.

A type of cell division used by prokaryotic organisms like bacteria, where a single cell replicates its DNA and divides into two identical daughter cells.

Loosely packed DNA fibers that are contained in the nucleus of a non-dividing cell.

Tightly coiled and condensed structures of DNA that are visible during cell division. Each chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids.

Two identical copies of a single chromosome that are joined together by a centromere.

A structure made of DNA, found in the nucleus of each human cell. There are 23 pairs of chromosomes in every human cell, totaling 46 chromosomes. They are thread-like and responsible for carrying genetic information that dictates physical traits and gender.

A structure made of a complex of proteins located on the centromere. This is where microtubules of the spindle attach during cell division, pulling apart the chromatids.

A structure that forms during cell division, composed of spindle fibers. These fibers attach to the kinetochore and pull apart the sister chromatids towards opposite poles of the cell.

A type of cell death that occurs in a controlled and programmed manner. It's the body's way of removing abnormal or unneeded cells. Think of it as a 'self-destruct' mechanism to maintain healthy tissues.

A band of actin filaments that forms a circular indentation in the cell membrane during cell division. It constricts, gradually pulling apart the two daughter cells.

A newly formed plasma membrane that expands during plant cell division. It's created from vesicles fused together and eventually joins with the old membrane to create a new cell wall.

An uncontrolled growth of cells in the body, often caused by mutations in the cell cycle regulation genes. This can lead to the formation of tumors and the spread of cancerous cells.

A basic protein that acts as a spool for DNA to coil around, forming nucleosomes. Histones help to compact and organize DNA within the nucleus, making it manageable.