cell cycle and mitosis

The cell cycle is the series of phases that a cell goes through from its formation to its division into two daughter cells. It includes interphase (G1, S, G2) and the mitotic phase (M).

During the G1 phase, the cell grows in size, produces RNA, and synthesizes proteins necessary for DNA replication.

During the S phase, DNA replication occurs, resulting in the duplication of chromosomes.

The G2 phase is a period of further growth and preparation for mitosis, where the cell checks for DNA damage and ensures all DNA is replicated.

The main stages of mitosis are prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

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

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

Anaphase is the stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell.

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

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