Cell Cycle Overview

A series of events within a cell that culminates in the creation of two daughter cells with identical genetic material, each containing a complete copy of the parent's DNA.

This phase is marked by the synthesis of essential macromolecules for DNA replication.

During this phase, DNA replication occurs, doubling the amount of genetic material.

The cell prepares for mitosis, synthesizing proteins and storing energy for the division process.

The process of nucleus division, resulting in two identical nuclei.

The division of the cytoplasm, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

A type of cell division where daughter cells have the same number and type of chromosomes as the parent cell, ensuring genetic continuity.

A type of cell division that produces gametes (sex cells) with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. This ensures that each individual inherits one set of chromosomes from each parent.

The first stage of mitosis, characterized by the condensation of chromosomes, the disappearance of the nucleolus and nuclear envelope, and the migration of centrioles to opposite poles of the cell.

The second stage of mitosis, where chromosomes line up at the center of the cell (metaphase plate) along spindle fibers.

The third stage of mitosis during which sister chromatids are pulled apart by spindle fibers and migrate to opposite poles.

The final stage of mitosis where the nuclear envelope reforms around the chromosomes, the spindle fibers disappear, and cytokinesis (division of cytoplasm) begins.

The first stage of meiosis I, in which homologous chromosomes pair up (synapsis), exchange genetic material (crossing over), and condense.

The second stage of meiosis I, during which the paired homologous chromosomes line up along the equator of the cell.

During this phase of meiosis, homologous chromosome pairs, each consisting of two chromatids, migrate away from each other towards opposite poles of the cell. This ensures that each daughter cell receives one chromosome from each pair.

This phase of meiosis is similar to telophase in mitosis. The nuclear membrane reforms around the chromosomes, and the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two daughter cells. Importantly, these daughter cells have half the number of chromosomes as the original parent cell.

Unlike Meiosis I, Meiosis II is NOT preceded by the replication (S) phase. It begins with duplicated chromosomes then divides again, splitting the sister chromatids to produce haploid gametes.

During Meiosis II, chromosomes (each consisting of two sister chromatids) are lined up at the equator of the cell and then separated, with each chromatid going to a different daughter cell. Cytokinesis then completes the process, resulting in four haploid daughter cells.

The process during which chromosomes are copied and then separated, resulting in cells with half the number of chromosomes compared to the original cell. This is a critical process for sexual reproduction, as it produces gametes (sperm and egg) to facilitate fertilization and the creation of a new individual with a unique genetic combination.