Chapter 9 - Mitosis

Fundamentals of biology

Cell Cycle

The life of a cell from origin to division into 2 new daughter cells.

Cell Division

Process by which a cell divides into 2 new cells.

Parent Cell

The original cell that divides to form two new daughter cells.

Daughter Cells

The new cells that are created from the division of the parent cell.

Chromatin

Long, thread-like DNA in a non-dividing cell.

Chromosome

Doubled, coiled DNA in a dividing cell.

Prophase

The stage where chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes and centrioles move to opposite poles.

Metaphase

The stage where chromosomes align along the middle of the cell.

Anaphase

The stage where sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

The stage where daughter nuclei form, and chromosomes uncoil.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm and organelles after mitosis.

G1/S Checkpoint

Checks if DNA synthesis can begin.

G2/M Checkpoint

Checks if DNA synthesis has been completed correctly.

Spindle Checkpoint

Ensures all chromosomes are attached to the spindle before separation.

G0 Phase

A non-dividing, differentiated state of the cell cycle.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death.

Proto-oncogenes

Genes that stimulate cell division.

Tumor-suppressor genes

Genes that inhibit cell division.

Cancer

Uncontrolled cell growth that occurs in the absence of growth signals.

Binary Fission

A form of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes, splitting in two.