Question
The cell cycle
10. As eukaryotic cells grow and divide, they pass through a cell cycle that consists
of 3 stages:
3.
10. As eukaryotic cells grow and divide, they pass through a cell cycle that consists
of 3 stages:
3.
Ask by Lambert Rodriguez. in Canada
Jan 22,2025
Upstudy AI Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
The cell cycle consists of three main stages: Interphase, Mitosis (M Phase), and Cytokinesis.
Solution
The cell cycle is the series of events that take place in a eukaryotic cell leading to its growth, duplication of its DNA, and division into two daughter cells. This cycle ensures that each new cell receives the necessary components to function correctly. The cell cycle is typically divided into three main stages:
- Interphase
- Mitosis (M Phase)
- Cytokinesis
1. Interphase
Interphase is the longest phase of the cell cycle and is crucial for preparing the cell for division. It is further subdivided into three phases:
-
G₁ Phase (Gap 1):
- Growth and Preparation: The cell grows in size, produces RNA, and synthesizes proteins required for DNA replication.
- Checkpoint: The cell assesses whether conditions are favorable for DNA synthesis and division.
-
S Phase (Synthesis):
- DNA Replication: Each chromosome is duplicated, ensuring that both daughter cells will receive an identical set of chromosomes.
- Centrosome Duplication: The centrosome, which plays a key role in chromosome separation during mitosis, is also duplicated.
-
G₂ Phase (Gap 2):
- Final Preparations: The cell continues to grow and produces proteins necessary for mitosis.
- Checkpoint: The cell verifies that DNA replication has been completed successfully and that there is no DNA damage.
2. Mitosis (M Phase)
Mitosis is the process where the replicated chromosomes are separated into two new nuclei. It consists of several stages:
-
Prophase:
- Chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes.
- The nuclear envelope begins to break down.
- The mitotic spindle starts to form from the centrosomes.
-
Metaphase:
- Chromosomes align at the cell’s equatorial plate (metaphase plate).
- Spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes.
-
Anaphase:
- Sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell by the spindle fibers.
-
Telophase:
- Chromosomes arrive at the poles and begin to de-condense back into chromatin.
- Nuclear envelopes re-form around each set of chromosomes, resulting in two distinct nuclei within the cell.
3. Cytokinesis
Cytokinesis is the final stage of the cell cycle, where the cytoplasm divides, and two daughter cells are formed. It typically overlaps with the final stages of mitosis (specifically telophase). The process differs slightly between animal and plant cells:
-
In Animal Cells:
- A cleavage furrow forms, pinching the cell membrane inward until the cell splits into two.
-
In Plant Cells:
- A cell plate forms along the equator of the cell, eventually developing into a separating wall that divides the two daughter cells.
Summary
The three main stages of the eukaryotic cell cycle ensure that cells grow, replicate their DNA accurately, and divide to produce two genetically identical daughter cells. Proper regulation of these stages is essential for development, tissue repair, and maintenance in multicellular organisms. Disruptions in the cell cycle can lead to issues such as uncontrolled cell division, which is a hallmark of cancer.
Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor
Like
error msg
Explain 
Simplify this solution Bonus Knowledge
The cell cycle is a meticulously orchestrated series of events that allows eukaryotic cells to grow, duplicate their DNA, and divide. It consists of Interphase (with its three parts: G1, S, and G2), Mitosis, and Cytokinesis. In Interphase, the cell prepares for division by growing and replicating its DNA. During Mitosis, the cell’s chromosomes are separated and allocated to two new nuclei, and in Cytokinesis, the cytoplasm divides, creating two distinct daughter cells.
Understanding the cell cycle has profound implications in medicine and biotechnology! For instance, cancer research heavily focuses on this cycle since cancer cells often exhibit unchecked division. By targeting specific phases of the cycle, scientists are developing treatments that can disrupt the rapid replication of cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy cells, leading to more effective therapies.
