Eukaryotic Cell Cycle and DNA Replication

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the eukaryotic cell cycle and DNA replication, useful for exam preparation.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle for normal growth and preparation for cell division, divided into G1, S, and G2 phases.

Mitosis

The division of the nucleus during the mitotic phase of the cell cycle.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm following mitosis.

G1 Phase

The first gap or growth phase where the cell grows and synthesizes necessary components.

S Phase

The synthesis phase where DNA is replicated, forming sister chromatids.

G2 Phase

The second gap phase where DNA is checked and cellular reserves are replenished before mitosis.

M Phase

The mitotic phase that includes both mitosis and cytokinesis.

Karyokinesis

The division of the nucleus during cell division.

Leading Strand

The DNA strand that is synthesized continuously during DNA replication.

Lagging Strand

The DNA strand that is synthesized discontinuously during DNA replication in short fragments.

Mitotic Spindle

A structure composed of microtubules that segregates chromosomes during mitosis.

GO Phase

A resting phase of the cell cycle where cells are not actively dividing; can be permanent or temporary.

Vinblastine

A drug that prevents the formation of microtubules, thus inhibiting cell division and used as a cancer treatment.

Exponential Cell Growth

The rapid increase in cell numbers due to successive rounds of replication.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A method used to amplify DNA, allowing for the creation of multiple copies of a specific DNA segment.