Chromosomes and Cell Division

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to chromosome structure, cell division processes, and implications in cancer and reproduction.

Telomeres

Sections of noncoding, repetitive DNA in eukaryotic cells that act as a protective cap on the tip of each chromosome, getting shorter with each division.

Eukaryotic Chromosomes

Linear chromosomes contained within a nucleus, found in eukaryotic cells.

Prokaryotic Chromosome

A single circular chromosome attached to the cell membrane in prokaryotic cells.

Binary Fission

The process by which prokaryotes divide, involving the replication of DNA to produce identical chromosomes.

Cell Cycle

The alternation of activities a somatic cell undergoes, including phases like interphase and mitosis.

Interphase

The phase in which a cell spends the majority of its time, consisting of G1, S, and G2 phases prior to division.

Mitosis

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

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes by half to create haploid gametes.

Apoptosis

The programmed death of cells, often in response to significant DNA damage.

Cancer Cells

Cells that exhibit unrestrained growth and division, often due to failures in the cell cycle control system.

Checkpoints

Control mechanisms in the cell cycle that assess progress and ensure replication fidelity.

Gametes

Reproductive cells produced by meiosis, containing half the number of chromosomes and are haploid.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, leading to genetic variation.

Histone Proteins

Proteins that DNA wraps around to form chromosomes, aiding in the packaging and organization of genetic material.

Chromatin

The loose, uncoiled form of DNA in interphase cells, which condenses to form chromosomes during mitosis.

Cytokinesis

The process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm divides to form two new daughter cells.

Nondisjunction

Errors in the distribution of chromosomes during meiosis, leading to gametes with abnormal chromosome numbers.