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Question
9 what are the checkpoints for cells, where in the cell cycle can they be found, and what are they checking for?
- cancer is caused by?
changes(mutation) to the
dna within cells.
11 what is the cell cycle?
a series of events that takes place in a cell as it
grows and divides.
12 what are the parts of interphase and what occurs in each step?
- what are the functions of the cell cycle?
- what is mitosis?
- how is mitosis related to genetic continuity (continuity means \the same \)?
Question 9 (Cell Cycle Checkpoints)
Cell cycle checkpoints ensure accurate cell division. There are three main checkpoints: G₁ (before S phase), G₂ (before M phase), and M (during mitosis).
- G₁ Checkpoint: Located at the end of G₁ phase. Checks if the cell has enough resources (nutrients, growth factors), if the DNA is undamaged, and if the cell size is adequate for division. If conditions are met, the cell enters S phase; otherwise, it may enter G₀ (resting) or undergo repair/apoptosis.
- G₂ Checkpoint: At the end of G₂ phase. Verifies that DNA replication in S phase was accurate and complete, and that the cell has enough proteins/organelles for mitosis. If DNA is damaged or replication is incomplete, the cell pauses to repair or is eliminated.
- M Checkpoint (Spindle Checkpoint): During metaphase of mitosis. Checks if all sister chromatids are properly attached to the mitotic spindle fibers at the kinetochores. If attached correctly, anaphase (sister chromatid separation) proceeds; otherwise, mitosis is paused.
Cancer arises from uncontrolled cell division due to mutations (changes) in genes that regulate the cell cycle (e.g., tumor suppressor genes like p53, or proto - oncogenes that become oncogenes). These mutations disrupt normal cell cycle checkpoints, allowing cells to divide uncontrollably, evade apoptosis (cell death), and form tumors. Environmental factors (carcinogens like UV, tobacco), genetic predisposition, or viral infections can trigger these mutations.
The cell cycle is a series of ordered events that a cell undergoes as it grows, replicates its DNA, and divides to produce two daughter cells. It includes interphase (G₁, S, G₂ phases, where the cell grows and prepares for division) and the mitotic (M) phase (where cell division occurs, including mitosis and cytokinesis). The cycle ensures cells reproduce accurately for growth, repair, and (in some organisms) asexual reproduction.
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(Table Completion):
| Ck point | Location | checking for... |
|---|---|---|
| G₂ Checkpoint | End of G₂ phase (before M phase) | Accurate DNA replication, sufficient cell components for mitosis |
| M Checkpoint (Spindle Checkpoint) | Metaphase of mitosis | Proper attachment of all sister chromatids to spindle fibers |