Lecture notes Biology 152 - Cell Reproduction

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts in the study of cell reproduction in Biology 152.

Cell Theory

Rudolf Virchow's principle that states 'Every cell from a cell'.

Cell Division

The process of producing new cells from existing cells.

Genome

The complete set of DNA, including all of its genes.

Prokaryotes

Organisms with a single circular chromosome, and may also contain plasmids.

Eukaryotes

Organisms with complex cells containing a nucleus.

Somatic Cells

All human body cells except gametes (egg and sperm cells).

Gametes

The reproductive cells, specifically egg and sperm.

Centromere

The region where sister chromatids are attached.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where most cells spend their time, including G1, S, and G2 phases.

Mitosis

The division of the nucleus and its contents.

Cytokinesis

The process of dividing the cytoplasm and its contents.

Mitotic Spindle

Microtubules and associated proteins that help segregate chromosomes.

Kinetochore

A structure on chromosomes where microtubules attach during cell division.

Metaphase

The phase of mitosis where chromosomes are aligned at the equatorial plate.

Anaphase

The phase of mitosis where sister chromatids are pulled apart.

Telophase

The final phase of mitosis in which chromosomes decondense and the nuclear envelope reASSEMBLES.

G1 Checkpoint

The checkpoint in the cell cycle that assesses cell size, protein reserves, and DNA integrity.

G2 Checkpoint

The checkpoint that checks if DNA has been replicated and if the cell is of adequate size.

M Checkpoint

The checkpoint at the end of metaphase that ensures all chromosomes are attached to the spindle.

Cyclins

Proteins that regulate the progression of the cell cycle.

Tumor Suppressor Proteins

Proteins like Rb and p53 that prevent uncontrolled cell division.

Oncogenes

Genes that have the potential to cause cancer when mutated.

Benign Tumor

A mass of cells that does not invade nearby tissues.

Malignant Tumor

A cancerous tumor that invades surrounding tissues.

Metastasis

The process through which cancer cells spread from the original site to other parts of the body.

Chemotherapy

A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells.

Prokaryotic Cell Division

The process by which prokaryotes, like bacteria, divide; does not involve mitosis.