Cell Cycle and Division Quiz

Cell Cycle

• Cells come from pre-existing cells, allowing organisms to reproduce.
• Key roles of cells include creating new life, renewing and repairing multicellular eukaryotes, and distributing identical genetic material.
• Reproduction involves two main types:
  • Sexual reproduction: Offspring are different from parents (using parental cells), better at adapting.
  • Asexual reproduction: Offspring are identical to parents, requiring only one parent.

Cellular Organization and Genetic Material

• DNA is the genetic material, packaged into chromosomes (varying from 100 to 1000 per cell).
• Genes are sections of DNA coding for proteins.
• Chromatin is a complex of DNA and proteins that condenses during cell division.
• Sister chromatids are identical strands of DNA.
• Somatic cells are non-reproductive.
• Gametes are reproductive cells.
• Sister chromatids separate to form chromosomes in new daughter cells.

Cell Division

• Cell division includes mitosis (division of the nucleus) and cytokinesis (division of the cytoplasm).
• Mitosis produces genetically identical daughter cells.
• Meiosis produces non-identical daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
• Interphase is the majority (90%) of the cell cycle, with G1, S, and G2 phases for growth, DNA replication, and preparation for division, respectively.

Mitosis Specifics

• Prophase: Development of centrosomes, breakdown of the nuclear envelope.
• Prometaphase: Organization of chromosomes at the middle(metaphasal plate), movement towards the poles.
• Metaphase: Chromosomes aligned at the middle.
• Anaphase: Chromosomes separate.
• Telophase: New nuclei form, cleavage furrow.
• Centrosomes act as attachment points for sister chromatids, separating via mechanisms similar to "walking" or "pulling."

Cell Cycle Regulation

• Eukaryotic cell cycles are controlled by a molecular control system involving different molecules (signals based on cell type).
• Checkpoints in the cycle help ensure accurate division.
• Errors can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, a process called cancer.

Test your knowledge on the cell cycle, cell division, and the organization of genetic material. This quiz covers important concepts such as sexual and asexual reproduction, DNA structure, and the role of chromosomes. Perfect for students studying biology!