Cell cycle checkpoints

Front

What are cell cycle checkpoints?

Back

Cell cycle checkpoints are regulatory pathways that monitor and control the progression of the cell cycle, ensuring that cells do not proceed to the next phase until certain conditions are met.

Front

Name the three main checkpoints of the cell cycle.

Back

G1 checkpoint, G2 checkpoint, and M (mitosis) checkpoint.

Front

What is the role of tumor-suppressor genes in the cell cycle?

Back

Tumor-suppressor genes produce proteins that inhibit cell division, preventing uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation.

Front

What happens when DNA is damaged during the cell cycle?

Back

If DNA is damaged and cannot be repaired, apoptosis (programmed cell death) is initiated to prevent the propagation of damaged cells.

Front

What are proto-oncogenes?

Back

Proto-oncogenes are normal genes that, when mutated, can become oncogenes, leading to uncontrolled cell division.

Front

How do oncogenes affect the cell cycle?

Back

Oncogenes can cause super-accelerated mitosis, leading to rapid cell division and potentially cancer.

Front

What is the significance of the G1 checkpoint?

Back

The G1 checkpoint assesses cell size, DNA integrity, and nutrient availability before allowing the cell to enter the S phase for DNA replication.

Front

What is the function of the G2 checkpoint?

Back

The G2 checkpoint ensures that all DNA has been replicated correctly and checks for DNA damage before the cell enters mitosis.

Front

What can happen if cell cycle checkpoints fail?

Back

If cell cycle checkpoints fail, it can lead to uncontrolled cell division, resulting in cancer.

Front

What triggers apoptosis in cells?

Back

Apoptosis is triggered when DNA damage cannot be repaired, preventing the survival of potentially harmful cells.