The cell cycle

The cell cycle is the process by which a single cell divides into two genetically identical daughter cells. It is a series of events that takes place in a cell leading to its division and duplication. The cell cycle is divided into two main stages: interphase and the mitotic phase.

 

Interphase:

Interphase is the period between cell divisions. During this stage, the cell grows, replicates its DNA, and prepares for cell division. Interphase is divided into three phases:

 

G1 phase: During the G1 phase, the cell grows and synthesizes RNA and proteins needed for DNA replication.

 

S phase: During the S phase, DNA replication occurs, resulting in two identical copies of the genetic material.

 

G2 phase: During the G2 phase, the cell prepares for cell division, synthesizes microtubules, and checks the integrity of DNA.

Mitotic Phase:

 

The mitotic phase is the period during which the cell divides into two daughter cells. The mitotic phase is divided into four stages:

 

Prophase: The chromatin condenses into discrete chromosomes, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the spindle apparatus begins to form.

 

Metaphase: The spindle apparatus aligns the chromosomes along the equatorial plane of the cell.

 

Anaphase: The sister chromatids separate at the centromeres and are pulled apart by the spindle apparatus towards opposite poles of the cell.

 

Telophase: The nuclear envelope re-forms around the two sets of chromosomes, and the spindle apparatus disintegrates.

 

Cytokinesis:

Cytokinesis is the final stage of the cell cycle, during which the cell physically divides into two daughter cells. In animal cells, a contractile ring of actin and myosin filaments forms around the cell, which eventually pinches the cell membrane inwards to divide the cytoplasm into two. In plant cells, a cell plate is formed from Golgi-derived vesicles, which eventually divides the cell into two.

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