General Biology 1 - Cell Cycle

Flashcards for General Biology 1 - Cell Cycle

Chromosomes

Thread-like structures that contain DNA.

Gene

The hereditary unit consisting of a sequence of DNA

Centromere

Region joining two sister chromatids.

Chromatid

One-half of two identical copies of a replicated chromosome.

Sister Chromatids/Dyads

Joined chromatids that make up one arm.

Telomeres

Repetitive nucleotide sequences at the end of chromatids that protect chromosomes from damage.

Mitosis

Cell reproduction of somatic cells, resulting in identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

Cell reproduction leading to the production of gametes (sex cells).

Diploid Cells

Contain two complete sets (2n) of chromosomes.

Haploid Cells

Contain only one complete set (n) of chromosomes.

Gap 1 Phase (G1)

Cell increases in size in preparation for DNA synthesis.

Synthesis Phase (S)

Synthesis of DNA replication.

Gap 2 Phase (G2)

Cell continues to grow in preparation for mitosis.

Mitosis Phase (M)

Cell growth stops and the cell begins to divide into two identical daughter cells.

Gap 0 Phase (G0)

Resting phase of the cell where the cell stops dividing.

Interphase

Cell grows and makes a copy of its DNA.

Prophase

Chromosomes duplicate, nuclear envelope shatters, and polar spindles form.

Metaphase

Spindles fully developed, and chromosomes align at the center of the cell.

Anaphase

Sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

Chromosomes are contained in the new nucleus of each forming daughter cell; the parent cell is about to split.

Cytokinesis

Division of the parent cell's cytoplasm into two daughter cells.

G1 Restriction Point

The point where the cell becomes committed to undergo cell division.

G2 Checkpoint

Prevents cells from entering the mitotic phase if their chromosomes contain defects.

M Checkpoint (Spindle Checkpoint)

Checks if all sister chromatids are attached to the spindle microtubules.

Cyclins

Proteins active in regulating the cell cycle.

Cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdks)

Enzymes activated by cyclin that modify proteins for cell division.

Apoptosis

A mechanism where a cell destroys itself if damage cannot be repaired.