Phases of the Cell Cycle and Control Points

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to the cell cycle, mitosis stages, and checkpoint regulation.

Cell Cycle

Ordered series of events in which a cell grows, replicates its DNA, and divides into two daughter cells.

Interphase

Longest stage of the cell cycle; cell grows, performs normal functions, and prepares for division (includes G1, S, G2).

M Phase

Mitotic phase where the nucleus (mitosis) and cytoplasm (cytokinesis) divide.

G1 Phase

First gap of interphase; cell increases in size, makes proteins, and carries out routine activities.

S Phase

Synthesis phase of interphase in which DNA is replicated so each daughter cell receives a full chromosome set.

G2 Phase

Second gap of interphase; cell grows more and produces components needed for mitosis.

Mitosis

Process that separates duplicated chromosomes into two identical nuclei; includes prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Prophase

First stage of mitosis; chromosomes condense, spindle fibers form, nuclear envelope breaks down.

Metaphase

Mitotic stage where chromosomes line up along the cell’s equatorial plate.

Anaphase

Mitotic stage in which sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

Final mitotic stage; new nuclear envelopes form around chromosomes and they decondense.

Cytokinesis

Division of the cytoplasm and organelles, producing two identical daughter cells after mitosis.

Chromosome

Thread-like structure of DNA and protein carrying genetic information; becomes visible during mitosis.

Sister Chromatids

Identical copies of a chromosome connected at the centromere after DNA replication.

Centromere

Region where sister chromatids are joined and spindle fibers attach during mitosis.

Spindle Fibers

Microtubules that attach to chromosomes and help separate them during mitosis.

Cell Cycle Checkpoints

Regulatory points that assess cell size, DNA integrity, and chromosome attachment before allowing progression.

G1 Checkpoint

Checkpoint ensuring cell is big enough, DNA is undamaged, and resources are sufficient before DNA replication.

G2 Checkpoint

Checkpoint verifying DNA has been accurately copied and the cell is ready to enter mitosis.

M Checkpoint (Spindle Checkpoint)

Checkpoint confirming all chromosomes are properly attached to spindle fibers before anaphase begins.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death triggered when damage is irreparable, preventing faulty cells from dividing.

Cancer

Disease resulting from uncontrolled cell division often due to malfunctioning checkpoints.