Cell Cycle and Cell Division
The cell cycle is fundamental to life, encompassing the process through which a single cell divides to form two daughter cells, involving DNA replication and chromosomal organization. It is divided into two primary phases:
- Interphase: Comprising over 95% of the cell cycle duration, this phase is responsible for cellular growth and DNA synthesis and is further categorized into:
- G1 (Gap 1): The cell grows and performs normal functions, preparing for DNA synthesis.
- S (Synthesis): The stage where DNA is replicated, resulting in two sister chromatids for each chromosome.
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G2 (Gap 2): The cell continues to grow and prepares for mitosis.
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M Phase (Mitotic Phase): This phase includes not only the actual division of the nucleus (karyokinesis) but also the division of the cytoplasm (cytokinesis). Mitosis is further divided into prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each sub-stage plays a critical role in ensuring that the daughter cells receive identical genetic material.
Meiosis, a distinct type of cell division, is vital for sexual reproduction, reducing chromosome number and ensuring genetic diversity. Both processes are tightly regulated and are crucial for the growth and development of multicellular organisms and for maintaining organism viability across generations.