Mitosis and Asexual Reproduction

Cell Cycle

The series of stages in a cell's life involving growth, DNA replication, and division.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for mitosis.

Mitosis

The process of nuclear division that results in two identical daughter nuclei.

Cytokinesis

The final stage of the cell cycle where the cytoplasm divides, creating two daughter cells.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where DNA condenses into chromosomes and the nuclear membrane disappears.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes are lined up at the cell's equator.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis when sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite ends of the cell.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis where the chromosomes decondense and nuclear membranes reform.

Binary Fission

A form of asexual reproduction where a single organism divides into two identical organisms.

Budding

A method of asexual reproduction where a new organism develops as an outgrowth from the parent.

Fragmentation

A form of asexual reproduction where a small part of an organism breaks off and grows into a new organism.

Vegetative Reproduction

A form of asexual reproduction in plants by which new plants grow from parts of the parent plant.

Spore Formation

A method of asexual reproduction involving the release of spores that can develop into new organisms.

Cancer

A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell division that can lead to tumor formation.

Checkpoint Proteins

Proteins that monitor the cell cycle and regulate cell division.

Sister Chromatids

Two identical copies of a chromosome connected by a centromere.

Angiogenesis

The process of forming new blood vessels, often stimulated by tumors to supply nutrients.

Cell Theory

The fundamental concept that all living things are composed of cells, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Continuity

The principle that a species continues to exist over time due to reproduction.

Zygote

The fertilized egg that results from the union of male and female gametes.

Cell Replacement

The process of replacing old or damaged cells through cell division.

Nuclear Membrane

A double membrane that encloses the nucleus of a cell.

Chromatin

The material consisting of DNA and proteins that make up chromosomes during interphase.

Cleavage Furrow

The indentation that begins the process of cytokinesis in animal cells.

Cell Plate

The structure that forms during cytokinesis in plant cells to divide the cell in two.

Genetic Information

The hereditary material contained in DNA that is passed from parents to offspring.