Biology Chapter 5 - Cell Growth and Division

Cell Cycle and Division

• The cell cycle consists of growth, DNA replication, and cell division processes in eukaryotic cells.
• Mitosis refers to the division of a cell's nucleus and contents, crucial for cell reproduction.
• Cytokinesis is the process where the cell cytoplasm splits, finalizing cell division.

Chromosomal Structures

• Chromosomes are long DNA threads containing numerous genes and regulatory information.
• Histones are proteins that help organize chromosomes and provide a structure for DNA wrapping.
• Chromatin is a loose combination of DNA and proteins present during interphase.
• A chromatid is one half of a duplicated chromosome, essential for cell division.
• The centromere is the region that attaches spindle fibers during mitosis and meiosis.
• Telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences at DNA ends that protect gene integrity.

Mitosis Phases

• Prophase: Chromatin condenses, nuclear envelope breaks down, and centrioles move to cell poles.
• Metaphase: Spindle fibers align chromosomes at the cell equator.
• Anaphase: Chromatids are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell.
• Telophase: Identical chromosomes reach poles, nuclear membranes reform, and chromosomes uncoil.

Cellular Regulation and Cancer

• Growth factors are proteins that stimulate and regulate cell division.
• Apoptosis is the programmed cell death process, crucial for maintaining healthy tissue.
• Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled cell division leading to tumors.
• Benign tumors are non-cancerous and generally do not pose serious health risks.
• Malignant tumors are cancerous and can spread harmful cells throughout the body (metastasize).
• Carcinogens are substances that promote cancer development.

Reproductive Processes

• Asexual reproduction occurs through a single parent, without gamete formation.
• Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction where a cell divides into two equal parts.

Tissue Organization

• Tissues are composed of groups of cells working together for a common function.
• Organs are formed by different tissue types collaborating to perform specific functions.
• Organ systems consist of multiple organs coordinating to execute related actions.

Cell Development

• Cell differentiation involves unspecialized cells developing into mature forms with specific functions.
• Stem cells are unique as they can divide extensively while remaining undifferentiated.

Test your knowledge on the key concepts of cell growth and division in eukaryotic cells with this comprehensive flashcard quiz. Cover important terms like the cell cycle, mitosis, cytokinesis, and chromosomes. Ideal for reinforcing your understanding of biological processes.