Cell cycle

The cell cycle is the sequence of growth, DNA replication, and division through which a cell produces two daughter cells. Its stages coordinate genome duplication with cell division.

Interphase: The portion of the cell cycle in which a cell grows, replicates its DNA, and prepares for division. It encompasses G1, S, and G2, when most growth and DNA replication occur.
DNA replication: The process by which a DNA molecule is copied to produce two DNA molecules. Each daughter cell needs a complete genome copied during S phase.
Meiosis: A specialized cell division that produces haploid cells through two successive divisions. Unlike the usual cell cycle, it reduces chromosome number and creates reproductive cells.
Cancer: A group of diseases in which abnormal cells grow and spread beyond normal tissue controls. Cancer commonly involves mutations that weaken restraints on cell-cycle progression.
Mitosis: The division of a eukaryotic cell nucleus into two genetically similar nuclei. It separates duplicated chromosomes before the cell splits.
Chromosome: A DNA molecule packaged with proteins that carries genetic information. Duplicated chromosomes must be organized and distributed during division.
Prokaryotic fission: The process by which a prokaryotic cell replicates its DNA and divides into two cells. Bacteria divide without the eukaryotic cycle's distinct mitosis and nuclear envelope.
Oncogene: A gene that can drive cancer when activated or expressed abnormally. Oncogenes can push cells through growth and division signals.
Cytokinesis: The division of a cell's cytoplasm into two daughter cells. It completes cell division after nuclear material has been partitioned.
Sister chromatid: One of two identical DNA-protein copies of a replicated chromosome, joined at the centromere. The paired copies separate during mitosis so each daughter receives one.

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