Mitosis, Meiosis, and the Cell Cycle Overview

Cell Cycle

The process by which cells grow, prepare to divide, and divide to form new cells.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows and prepares for division.

G1 Phase

The phase where the cell grows.

S Phase

The phase where DNA replicates.

G2 Phase

The phase where the cell prepares for division.

Mitosis

The process that divides the nucleus followed by cytokinesis.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm that follows mitosis.

Somatic Cells

Cells that undergo mitosis for growth, repair, and replacement.

Genetically Identical Daughter Cells

The result of mitosis, producing 2 cells that are identical to the parent cell.

Prophase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes become visible, the nuclear envelope disappears, and centrioles move to opposite ends.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes line up in the center of the cell and spindle fibers attach to centromeres.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis where each chromosome splits into identical chromatids and are pulled to opposite ends.

Telophase

The stage of mitosis where chromatids reach opposite ends, start to uncoil, and the nuclear membrane reforms.

Cancer

A condition caused by cells dividing uncontrollably, skipping checkpoints.

Apoptosis

The cell 'self-destruct' mechanism for damaged cells.

Meiosis

The process that occurs in germ cells to produce 4 unique haploid cells essential for sexual reproduction.

Haploid Cells

Cells that have half the number of chromosomes (4 unique cells produced by meiosis).

Diploid Cells

Cells that have two sets of chromosomes (46 in humans).

Homologous Chromosomes

Chromosome pairs that have the same genes, but possibly different variants.

Tetrad

A pair of homologous chromosomes that come together during Prophase I.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during Prophase I, increasing genetic variation.

Gametes

Sex cells, specifically egg and sperm.

Zygote

A fertilized egg that forms after the fusion of egg and sperm (diploid).

Genetic Variation

The diversity in offspring due to crossing over and random assortment of chromosomes during meiosis.

Mitotic Index

a measure of cell division that has been demonstrated to be a good predictor of the outcomes for some human and dog cancers.