cell growth and division

Cell Division

Process for cells to reproduce themselves.

Somatic Cell Division

Division of body cells for repair and growth.

Meiosis

Produces gametes with half chromosome number.

Genetic Diversity

Variation in genetic traits among offspring.

Sexual Reproduction

Offspring produced from two parents, genetically diverse.

Asexual Reproduction

Offspring produced from a single parent, identical.

Chromatin

Uncoiled DNA and proteins before cell division.

Histones

Proteins DNA wraps around to form chromosomes.

Prokaryotes

Organisms with a single circular chromosome.

Eukaryotes

Organisms with multiple linear chromosomes.

Autosomes

44 chromosomes in humans, homologous pairs.

Sex Chromosomes

2 chromosomes determining gender: XX or XY.

Diploid Cells

Somatic cells with two sets of chromosomes.

Haploid Cells

Gametes with one set of chromosomes.

Karyotype

Visual display of an individual's chromosomes.

Cell Cycle

Stages: Interphase, Mitosis, Cytokinesis.

Interphase

Growth phase, DNA replication, organelle copying.

Mitosis

Process of cell division into two identical cells.

Prophase

Chromatin coils, nuclear envelope breaks down.

Metaphase

Chromosomes align at the cell's center.

Anaphase

Chromatids separate to opposite cell sides.

Telophase

Nuclear envelope reforms, chromosomes uncoil.

Cytokinesis

Division of cytoplasm, forming two daughter cells.

Stem Cells

Undifferentiated cells capable of developing into specialized cells.

Totipotent Cells

Can develop into any body cell type.

Pluripotent Cells

Can develop into many but not all cell types.

Embryonic Stem Cells

Pluripotent cells from early embryo.

Adult Stem Cells

Multipotent cells replacing old cells in tissues.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death, removing damaged cells.

Cancer

Uncontrolled cell growth, can form tumors.

Benign Tumors

Non-invasive tumors, often harmless.

Malignant Tumors

Invasive tumors that can spread and destroy tissue.

Carcinomas

Cancers originating in skin or organ linings.

Sarcomas

Cancers originating in bone or muscle tissue.

Lymphomas

Cancers affecting blood cell forming tissues.

Carcinogens

Substances increasing cancer risk, e.g., tobacco.

Gene Mutations

Genetic changes increasing cancer risk.

Treatments for Cancer

Include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.