Cells II: The Cell Cycle, Differentiation, and Cancer

Mitosis

A process for dividing a parent cell into two identical daughter cells, important for growth and tissue replacement.

Meiosis

A specialized form of cell division that produces gametes, resulting in four daughter cells with half the genetic content of the parent cell.

Cell Cycle

The sequence of phases (G1, S, G2, M) through which a cell progresses from one division to another.

Interphase

The period between active cell divisions, characterized by cell growth and metabolic activity.

G1 Phase

The first subphase of interphase, marked by high metabolic activity and cell growth.

S Phase

The subphase of interphase where DNA replication occurs, resulting in duplicated genetic material.

G2 Phase

The final phase of interphase, focusing on preparation for cell division.

G0 Phase

A non-dividing phase where certain cells exit the active cell cycle permanently.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense and the nuclear envelope breaks down.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes arrive at spindle poles and the nuclear envelope re-forms.

Cytokinesis

The physical division of the cytoplasm to form two distinct daughter cells following mitosis.

Differentiation

The process by which a cell develops specialized functions and structures.

Cancer

The uncontrolled division and spread of abnormal cells throughout the body.

Apoptosis

A controlled process of programmed cell death.

Carcinogens

Agents that induce mutations in DNA and contribute to cancer development.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer cells from the primary site to other parts of the body.

Biopsy

A medical procedure to extract tissue for microscopic examination to check for cancer.

Chemotherapy

A systemic treatment using cytotoxic drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy

A treatment that uses high-energy rays to kill or damage cancer cells.

Benign Tumors

Non-cancerous growths that do not invade surrounding tissues or spread.

Malignant Tumors

Cancerous growths that invade nearby tissues and can metastasize throughout the body.

Tumor Suppressor Genes

Genes that regulate cell growth and can prevent tumor formation when functioning properly.

Free Radical Accumulation

The buildup of reactive molecules that can cause damage to cell structures and contribute to aging.

Telomere Shortening

The gradual loss of telomeres during cell division, limiting the number of divisions a cell can undergo.