DNA Replication, Binary Fission, and Mitosis

These flashcards cover key concepts related to DNA replication, cell division processes including mitosis and binary fission, the cell cycle, and the implications of uncontrolled division such as cancer.

What is the main purpose of cell division in unicellular organisms?

To reproduce.

What process do eukaryotic cells use to divide after fertilization?

Mitosis.

How many chromosomes does the zygote initially have?

46 chromosomes.

What is meiosis?

The division of germ/sex cells (sperm and egg) that reduces the genetic material from 2 copies to 1.

What is the result of mitosis?

Two new daughter cells with exactly the same DNA as the parent cell.

What does apoptosis refer to?

Programmed cell death.

What does DNA replication require to ensure each new cell gets a complete copy?

The entire genome must be replicated.

What is unique about 'semiconservative' DNA replication?

One parental strand is retained while a new daughter strand is synthesized.

What types of cells divide by binary fission?

Prokaryotes, specifically bacteria and archaea.

What are the key phases of the cell cycle?

Interphase, Mitosis, and Cytokinesis.

What happens during the G1 phase of Interphase?

Normal growth and function along with protein synthesis.

What are the stages of Mitosis?

Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase.

What forms during cytokinesis in animal cells?

Cleavage furrow.

What are benign and malignant tumors?

Benign: non-cancerous; Malignant: cancerous and can spread.

What are some risk factors for cancer?

Unhealthy diet, obesity, tobacco use, and exposure to environmental toxins.

What happens at cell cycle checkpoints?

They ensure DNA has replicated, is undamaged, and chromosomes are aligned and separating properly.

How does cancer start?

By mutations in genes that control cell division checkpoints.