Protein Synthesis and Cell Cycle Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to protein synthesis and the cell cycle, important for understanding biological processes.

Protein synthesis

The process of manufacturing proteins from DNA blueprint using RNA, involving transcription and translation.

Transcription

The process of copying a gene for a specific protein, creating messenger RNA (mRNA) that exits through the nuclear pore.

Translation

The process in the cytosol where mRNA binds with ribosome to synthesize a polypeptide chain from amino acids.

Genetic code

A list specifying which amino acid is determined by each DNA triplet.

Mutations

Changes in DNA resulting from copying errors or induced by mutagens that can lead to diseases like cancer.

Amanita phalloides

A toxic mushroom species responsible for 95% of mushroom-related fatalities due to its toxin that inhibits RNA polymerase.

RNA polymerase

An enzyme that builds mRNA by binding to a gene and linking complementary nucleotides.

Initiation

The first stage of transcription where transcription factors and RNA polymerase bind to the promoter region of DNA.

Elongation

The stage of transcription where RNA polymerase adds complementary nucleotides to the growing mRNA molecule.

Termination

The final stage of transcription when the last triplet of the gene is reached and the pre-mRNA is prepared for modification.

Posttranslational modification

The process that occurs after translation where polypeptides are modified and folded into functional proteins.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle that includes growth and preparation for cell division, subdivided into G1, S, and G2 phases.

M phase

The phase of the cell cycle involving cell division, consisting of mitosis and cytokinesis.

Mitosis

The process in M phase where newly replicated genetic material is divided between daughter cells.

Cytokinesis

The process during M phase where the cytosol and organelles are divided between two daughter cells.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where chromatin condenses into chromosomes and spindle fibers form.

Metaphase

The second stage of mitosis where chromosomes align at the cell's equator.

Anaphase

The third stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled toward opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis where the nuclear envelope reassembles and chromosomes uncoil.

Cell theory

The theory that cells must arise from pre-existing cells and all forms of life result from cellular division.