Cell Division

Cell Cycle

Series of events in which a cell grows, prepares for division, and divides to form two daughter cells.

Cytokinesis in plant cells

Results in the formation of a cell plate between the new cells.

Cytokinesis in animal cells

Occurs by pinching the cell membrane in half.

G1 Phase

Cell growth phase before DNA replication.

S Phase

Phase of the cell cycle where DNA replication occurs.

G2 Phase

Preparation for division phase of the cell cycle.

Tumor

An abnormal mass of tissue that can be benign or malignant.

Cancer

Disease characterized by uncontrolled cell division due to mutations.

Chemotherapy

Treatment that uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.

Side effects of Chemotherapy

Can include hair loss, nausea, weakening of the immune system.

Mitosis vs. Meiosis

Mitosis results in 2 identical daughter cells; Meiosis results in 4 genetically diverse sex cells.

Crossing Over

Exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Metaphase in Mitosis

Chromosomes align at the cell's equator for separation.

Anaphase in Mitosis

Sister chromatids are pulled apart towards opposite ends of the cell.

Telophase in Mitosis

Chromosomes begin to de-condense back into chromatin.

Regulation of cell division

Involves cyclins and tumor suppressor genes to prevent uncontrolled growth.

Environmental factors of cancer

Includes sun exposure, smoking, pollution, and radiation.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell spends most of its time, consisting of G1, S, and G2 phases.

Prophase in Mitosis

The first stage of mitosis where chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes and the nuclear envelope begins to break down.

Cancer Treatments

Include methods such as surgery, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapies.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death, a mechanism that removes damaged or unnecessary cells.

Genetic Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to cancer if they occur in certain genes.

Biopsy

A medical test involving the extraction of cells or tissues for examination to diagnose cancer.

Carcinogens

Substances that promote the formation of cancer.

Oncogenes

Mutated forms of genes that promote cell division and can lead to cancer.

Tumor Suppressor Genes

Genes that normally help prevent uncontrolled cell growth; mutations can lead to cancer.

Stem Cells

Undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into different cell types.