Cell Cycle

Cell Cycle

The process by which a cell grows, prepares for division, and divides into two daughter cells.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division by growing, replicating organelles, and duplicating DNA.

Checkpoints

Points in the cell cycle where the cell undergoes checks to ensure proper division and prevent the spread of cancer cells.

S Phase

The stage of interphase where DNA is duplicated.

Mitosis

The process of cell division where two daughter cells are formed, each with the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm at the end of mitosis, resulting in the formation of two daughter cells.

Prophase

The first phase of mitosis where chromosomes condense and become visible, the nuclear membrane disappears, and centrioles separate.

Metaphase

The phase of mitosis where chromosomes line up across the middle of the cell and spindle fibers connect them to the poles.

Anaphase

The phase of mitosis where centromeres split, separating sister chromatids and moving them to opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

The phase of mitosis where chromosomes uncoil, a nuclear envelope forms around them, and spindle fibers break down.

Diploid Cell

Somatic cells that contain two sets of chromosomes.

Haploid Cell

Sex cells that contain one copy of each chromosome.

Zygote

A fertilized egg resulting from the fusion of sperm and egg cells.

Karyotype

The number and appearance of chromosomes in an individual.

Homologous Pairs

Two chromosomes that are the same and form a pair in diploid organisms.

Asexual Reproduction

Reproduction without the joining of gametes, resulting in genetically identical offspring.

Sexual Reproduction

Reproduction involving the joining of gametes, resulting in offspring with a genetic mixture of both parents.

Cancer

Uncontrolled cell division characterized by the formation of tumors.

Benign Tumor

A tumor that remains clustered and can be removed.

Malignant Tumor

A tumor that metastasizes and spreads to other parts of the body.

Checkpoints

Points in the cell cycle where the cell undergoes checks to ensure proper division and prevent the spread of cancer cells.

Mutations

Errors in genes involved in cell-cycle regulation that can lead to the development of cancer.

Radiation

Treatment for cancer that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Chemotherapy

Treatment for cancer that uses drugs to kill actively dividing cells, both cancerous and healthy.

Surgery

Treatment for cancer that involves the removal of tumors through surgical procedures.