Cell Cycle and Cell Divisions

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the cell cycle, cell divisions, and related biological processes.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

The primary genetic material of living organisms that stores genetic information in the sequences of its nucleotides.

Chromatin

A very thin string of DNA dispersed inside the intact cell nucleus during interphase.

Chromosome

Highly condensed form of DNA; humans have 46 individual chromosomes or 23 pairs.

Cell Cycle

The life cycle of a cell describing how cells grow, develop, and reproduce.

Interphase

The stage of the cell cycle where the cell grows and DNA is replicated.

Mitosis

The process by which somatic cells divide to produce new cells.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing gametes.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cell’s cytoplasm and other components, marked by the formation of a cleavage furrow in animal cells.

Haploid

A cell with one set of chromosomes (n).

Diploid

A cell with two sets of chromosomes (2n).

Nondisjunction

Failure of chromosomes or chromatids to separate properly during cell division.

Cancer

Diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell division, influenced by factors like heredity, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures.

Aneuploidy

A condition in which cells have an abnormal number of chromosomes.

Polyploidy

A condition where cells have an abnormal number of sets of chromosomes.

Crossing over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Stem Cell Technology

Applications of stem cell therapy for various conditions, including genetic disorders and injuries.

Phospholipid Bilayer

The fundamental structure of the cell membrane that is selectively permeable.

Diffusion

The movement of solute from a higher concentration to a lower concentration.

Facilitated Diffusion

The transport of molecules across a cell membrane via channel or carrier proteins without using energy.

Active Transport

The movement of molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Exocytosis

The process where substances are released from a cell through vesicles fusing with the plasma membrane.

Endocytosis

The process by which cells engulf substances from their environment, forming vesicles.

Phagocytosis

A type of endocytosis in which a cell engulfs solid particles.

Pinocytosis

A type of endocytosis in which a cell engulfs liquid.