Understanding the Cell Cycle and Its Stages

Cell Cycle

Series of events in cell division and growth.

Interphase

Phase where the cell prepares for division.

M Phase

Phase where mitosis and cytokinesis occur.

G1 Phase

Cell grows and synthesizes proteins.

S Phase

DNA replication occurs, doubling genetic material.

G2 Phase

Cell prepares for mitosis, checks DNA.

Mitosis

Process of nuclear division in eukaryotic cells.

Cytokinesis

Division of cytoplasm, forming two daughter cells.

Sister Chromatids

Identical copies of a chromosome joined at centromere.

Centromere

Region where sister chromatids are joined together.

Chromatin

Loose DNA structure during interphase, allows gene expression.

Condensed Chromosomes

Tightly packed DNA, visible during mitosis.

G0 Phase

Resting state where cells exit the cycle.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death, eliminating damaged cells.

Cell Cycle Checkpoints

Regulatory points ensuring proper cell cycle progression.