Biology Cell Cycle, Mitosis, and Cancer: Key Concepts and Vocabulary

What is the difference between chromatin and chromosomes?

Chromatin is the unraveled form of DNA found in interphase, while chromosomes are tightly coiled DNA visible during mitosis.

What is the primary goal of mitosis?

To divide the cell nucleus to form two genetically identical daughter cells.

What is the purpose of cytokinesis?

To divide the cytoplasm, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

What are the four major phases of the cell cycle in order?

G1, S, G2, and M phase.

What occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle?

DNA synthesis or replication.

What is apoptosis?

Programmed cell death that terminates cell growth.

How does cytokinesis differ between plant and animal cells?

Animal cells pinch the membrane, while plant cells form a cell plate.

What are the stages of mitosis in chronological order?

Prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

What characterizes cancerous cells compared to normal cells?

Cancerous cells exhibit uncontrolled cell growth due to mutated cell cycle regulators.

What are the three main categories of cancer causes?

Genetic inheritance, environmental toxins/radiation, and certain viruses.

What are the three main categories of cancer treatment?

Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

What is the role of proto-oncogenes in the cell cycle?

They act as 'green light' signals that stimulate the cell to move to the next phase.

What is the G0 phase?

A resting phase where the cell is not actively dividing.

What distinguishes embryonic stem cells from somatic adult stem cells?

Embryonic stem cells are pluripotent and can become many cell types, while adult stem cells are more limited (multipotent).

Why do cells undergo division in adults?

To replace damaged or old cells and repair injuries.

What happens to DNA during the S phase?

The amount of DNA doubles as it is replicated.

What is the function of the spindle fibers during mitosis?

They attach to chromosomes to pull them apart during anaphase.

Where do chromosomes line up during metaphase?

Along the middle (equator) of the cell.

What is a chromatid?

One of the two identical branches of a replicated chromosome.

What is the outcome of mitosis regarding genetic identity?

Two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell.

What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?

Benign tumors are non-cancerous and do not spread, while malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade surrounding tissues.

Which phase of the cell cycle does a cell spend the most time in?

Interphase, because it includes growth and DNA replication.

What is the role of tumor-suppressor genes?

They act as 'red light' signals to stop the cell cycle if errors are detected.

What structure reappears during telophase?

The nuclear envelope/membrane.

What are cell cycle regulators?

Factors like cyclins and CDKs that control the progression of cells through each stage.

What is the definition of a differentiated cell?

A cell that has specialized to perform a specific function, such as a muscle or blood cell.

Why is 'healing' a cut biologically inaccurate?

The body does not 'heal' in a magical sense; it uses cell division (mitosis) to replace lost or damaged cells.