Cell Growth and Reproduction

Vocabulary flashcards covering the cell cycle, phases of mitosis, interphase, and the biological implications of uncontrolled cell division (cancer).

Cell Division

The process where new cells are made when existing cells split to form two new cells.

Cell Cycle

A series of events a cell goes through as it grows and divides, consisting of the M phase, S phase, and G1 and G2 phases.

Mitosis

The division of the nucleus; reproduction by this method is asexual because daughter cells are genetically identical to the parent cell.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm which results in two new daughter cells.

Interphase

A period of the cell cycle consisting of the G1, S, and G2 phases.

G1 Phase

A period of activity in which cells do most of their growing, increasing in size and synthesizing new proteins and organelles.

S Phase

The period in which chromosomes are replicated and the synthesis of DNA (DNA replication) occurs.

G2 Phase

The shortest of the three phases of interphase where many organelles and molecules required for cell division are produced.

Prophase

The longest phase of mitosis where chromatin condenses into chromosomes, the nuclear envelope dissolves, and spindle fibers form.

Centromere

The center of a chromosome.

Centrioles

Structures that organize the spindle to help separate chromosomes during division.

Spindle

Microtubules that guide chromosomes during cell division.

Metaphase

A short phase of mitosis where chromosomes line up at the equator and microtubules connect the centromere to the spindle.

Anaphase

The phase of mitosis where centromeres split and sister chromatids separate to become individual chromosomes.

Telophase

The phase of mitosis where chromosomes uncoil and the nucleus reappears.

Cell Plate

A structure laid across the equator in plant cells during cytokinesis to form new cell walls.

Tissues

Groups of cells that work together.

Organs

Tissues organized in various combinations.

Organ Systems

Groups of multiple organs working together.

Genes

Segments of DNA that control the production of a protein; the key control period is just before DNA replication.

Cancer

Malignant growth resulting from uncontrolled cell division, which may be caused by environmental factors or changes in enzyme production.

Tumors

Masses of tissues formed by cancer cells that deprive normal cells of nutrients.