Cell Cycle and Mitosis

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to the cell cycle, mitosis, and related mechanisms.

Cell Cycle

The series of phases that a cell goes through from its formation to division.

Mitosis

The process where a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm between two daughter cells following mitosis.

Chromosome

A thread-like structure made of DNA and proteins that carries genetic information.

S Phase

The synthesis phase of the cell cycle where DNA is replicated.

G1 Phase

The first gap phase of the cell cycle, where the cell grows and prepares for DNA replication.

G2 Phase

The second gap phase of the cell cycle, where the cell prepares for mitosis.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis where sister chromatids separate and move towards opposite poles.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis, where nuclear envelopes re-form around separated chromosomes.

MPF (M-phase promoting factor)

A complex that triggers the cell's passage from G2 phase to mitosis.

Cyclin

A protein that regulates the cell cycle by activating kinases.

Checkpoint

A control mechanism in the cell cycle that ensures proper division.

Titin

A protein that helps in muscle contraction; also linked to cellular structures.