Lecture 1: Prokaryotic Cell Divison

Cell Reproduction

• Definition of Cell Division: The process by which one cell reproduces by dividing into two identical cells. This is known as cell division or binary fission.

Process of Cell Division

• DNA Replication: Before cell division occurs, the DNA within the cell is duplicated to ensure each new cell receives accurate genetic information.

  • The DNA is copied to prepare for the split, ensuring that both daughter cells contain the same genetic material as the original cell.

• Cell Growth: The cell increases in size to make sufficient space for the additional DNA and the various cell components.

  • This growth is necessary to accommodate all the elements that will be shared between the two new cells.

Elongation and Separation

• Cell Elongation: As the process continues, the cell begins to elongate.

  • This elongation is crucial as it prepares the cell for the division process.

• Cell Wall and Membrane Changes:

  • The cell walls and membranes begin to pinch in during division, a critical stage that enables the physical separation of the new cells.

• DNA Separation:

  • The strands of DNA then separate, ensuring that each new cell will end up with one identical copy of the DNA.

  • This step is vital to maintain genetic consistency between the original cell and the newly formed cells.