Flashcard (Unit 4, Topic 2)

Front

What is the M phase of the cell cycle?

Back

The M phase, or mitotic phase, is the stage of the cell cycle where actual cell division occurs, including mitosis and cytokinesis.

Front

What role do growth factors play in the cell cycle?

Back

Growth factors signal the cell to produce checkpoint-specific cyclin proteins, which are essential for regulating the cell cycle.

Front

What occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle?

Back

During the S phase, DNA synthesis occurs, where the cell replicates its DNA in preparation for cell division.

Front

What is the primary function of the G2 phase?

Back

The primary function of the G2 phase is to prepare the cell for division, ensuring all DNA is replicated and the cell is ready for mitosis.

Front

What happens during the G1 phase of the cell cycle?

Back

During the G1 phase, the cell grows and carries out normal metabolic processes, preparing for DNA synthesis.

Front

Define cytokinesis.

Back

Cytokinesis is the process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm of a parental cell divides into two daughter cells.

Front

What is the significance of cyclins in the cell cycle?

Back

Cyclins are proteins that regulate the cell cycle by activating cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), which drive the cell through different phases.

Front

What is a phosphorylation cascade?

Back

A phosphorylation cascade is a series of chemical reactions during which a protein is activated by the addition of a phosphate group, often leading to a cellular response.

Front

Explain the role of CDKs in the cell cycle.

Back

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are enzymes that, when activated by cyclins, regulate the progression of the cell cycle by phosphorylating target proteins.

Front

What is the purpose of checkpoints in the cell cycle?

Back

Checkpoints are control mechanisms that ensure the proper progression of the cell cycle, preventing errors such as DNA damage or incomplete replication.