Cell cycle and Mitosis

Front

What is the cell cycle?

Back

The cell cycle is the series of phases that a cell goes through to divide and replicate. It includes interphase (G1, S, G2) and the mitotic phase (M).

Front

What happens during interphase?

Back

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

Front

What is mitosis?

Back

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

Front

What occurs during prophase?

Back

During prophase, the chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the spindle apparatus begins to form.

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What occurs during metaphase?

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During metaphase, chromosomes line up at the cell's equatorial plane, and spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.

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What occurs during anaphase?

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

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What occurs during telophase?

Back

During telophase, the chromosomes reach the poles, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, and the chromosomes begin to de-condense.

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What is cytokinesis?

Back

Cytokinesis is the process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

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What is the significance of the G1 phase?

Back

The G1 phase is crucial for cell growth and preparation for DNA replication. The cell increases in size and synthesizes proteins necessary for DNA synthesis.

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What is the S phase?

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The S phase is the part of interphase where DNA is replicated, resulting in two copies of each chromosome.