Chapter 24: The Cell Cycle & Mitosis

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from Chapter 24 on the Cell Cycle and Mitosis, including definitions of phases, processes, and apoptotic pathways.

Cell Cycle

The life cycle of a cell encompassing normal growth, division, and eventual death.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows (G1), duplicates its DNA (S), and prepares for division (G2).

M Phase

The phase of the cell cycle that includes mitosis and cytokinesis.

G1 Phase

Gap 1 phase of interphase where the cell grows and performs normal metabolic processes.

S Phase

Synthesis phase where DNA replication occurs and sister chromatids form.

G2 Phase

Gap 2 phase where the cell prepares for division by duplicating organelles and forming the mitotic spindle.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that separates the duplicated genetic material into two daughter cells.

Cytokinesis

The process of division of the cytoplasm, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that benefits the organism by maintaining tissue health.

Intrinsic Pathway

The pathway activating apoptosis triggered by internal stressors such as DNA damage.

Extrinsic Pathway

The pathway activating apoptosis initiated by external signals, like death ligands binding to receptors.

Cyclin

A protein that regulates the cell cycle by activating cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs).

Checkpoints

Regulatory points in the cell cycle that assess the condition of the cell before proceeding.

Prophase

The stage of mitosis where chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes and the mitotic spindle begins to form.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes align at the metaphase plate.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles.

Telophase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes arrive at the poles and nuclear envelopes re-form.

Flow Cytometry

A laboratory technique used to analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of cells.

Apoptosome

A complex formed by cytochrome c and Apaf-1 that activates initiator caspases during apoptosis.

Caspases

A family of protease enzymes that play essential roles in programmed cell death (apoptosis).

Nuclear Envelope

A double membrane that encloses the nucleus and disintegrates during mitosis.