Genetics & Cell Division: Cell Cycle, Mitosis, Meiosis, and Human Reproduction

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death that plays a role in development and cancer prevention.

Caspases

Enzymes involved in apoptosis, categorized into initiators and executioners.

Interphase

The stage of the cell cycle that includes G1, S, G2, and G0 phases.

G1 Phase

The growth phase of the cell cycle where organelle duplication and preparation for DNA synthesis occur.

S Phase

The phase of the cell cycle where DNA replication occurs, resulting in sister chromatids.

G2 Phase

The phase of the cell cycle focused on protein synthesis in preparation for division.

G0 Phase

The resting stage of the cell cycle where the cell is not actively dividing.

Checkpoints

Regulatory points in the cell cycle (G1, G2, M) that ensure proper progression.

Proto-oncogenes

Genes that promote cell division, likened to a gas pedal.

Tumor suppressor genes

Genes that inhibit cell division, likened to brakes.

Carcinogenesis

The process by which normal cells transform into cancer cells.

Chromatin

The complex of DNA and proteins that forms chromosomes.

Diploid

A cell or organism with two sets of chromosomes, human diploid number is 2n = 46.

Haploid

A cell or organism with one set of chromosomes, human haploid number is n = 23.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm during cell division, differing between plant and animal cells.

Meiosis

The process of cell division that reduces chromosome number and ensures genetic diversity.

Crossing over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during Prophase I of meiosis.

Independent assortment

The random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes during Metaphase I of meiosis.

Spermatogenesis

The process of gamete production in males, resulting in four equal-sized sperm cells.

Oogenesis

The process of gamete production in females, resulting in one large egg and smaller polar bodies.