Cell Cycle and Meiosis Flashcards

Flashcards for cell cycle and meiosis review.

Cell Cycle

Series of events that cells go through as they grow and divide.

Mitosis

Nuclear division in eukaryotic cells that results in genetically identical daughter cells.

Cytokinesis

Division of the cytoplasm, creating two daughter cells.

Chromosome

A threadlike, gene-carrying structure composed of DNA.

Sister chromatids

Identical copies of a chromosome connected at the centromere.

Centromere

The region where two sister chromatids are joined.

Mitotic spindle

Microtubule structure that helps separate chromosomes.

Cyclin/Cdk

Proteins and enzymes that regulate progression of the cell cycle.

Checkpoint

Control points where stop and go-ahead signals regulate the cycle.

Meiosis

Process that reduces the chromosome number in half to produce gametes.

Homologous chromosomes

Chromosome pairs, one from each parent, that are similar in shape and gene content.

Crossing over

Exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during Prophase I.

Independent assortment

Random distribution of homologous chromosomes during Metaphase I.

Haploid (n)

A cell with one set of chromosomes.

Diploid (2n)

A cell with two sets of chromosomes.

Zygote

Fertilized egg; diploid cell from union of two gametes.

Synapsis

Pairing of homologous chromosomes during Prophase I.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and egg) formed via meiosis.