Cell Cycle and mitosis

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What is the cell cycle?

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The cell cycle is the series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication (replication). It consists of interphase (G1, S, G2) and the mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

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What happens during interphase?

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Interphase is the phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis. It consists of three stages: G1 (cell growth), S (DNA synthesis), and G2 (preparation for mitosis).

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What is mitosis?

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Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It includes several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

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What occurs during prophase?

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During prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the spindle apparatus begins to form.

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What is the significance of metaphase?

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Metaphase is crucial because the chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane, ensuring that each daughter cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.

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What happens during anaphase?

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During anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell by the spindle fibers.

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What occurs during telophase?

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During telophase, the chromosomes reach the opposite poles, begin to de-condense back into chromatin, and the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, resulting in two nuclei.

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What is cytokinesis?

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Cytokinesis is the final step of cell division, where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

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What is apoptosis?

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Apoptosis is programmed cell death, a regulated process that eliminates damaged or unnecessary cells, maintaining the health of an organism.

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Why is the cell cycle important?

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The cell cycle is essential for growth, development, and repair in multicellular organisms, allowing for the replacement of damaged or dead cells.