Cell Division Flashcards
What is the role of DNA replication in cell division?
DNA replication ensures that each daughter cell receives an exact copy of the parent cell’s genetic material
What are chromosomes made of?
Chromosomes are made up of DNA tightly coiled around histone proteins
What is the structure of a chromosome?
Each chromosome consists of two chromatids (sister chromatids) connected by a centromere
What is the function of chromosomes?
Chromosomes carry genetic information that dictates cellular function and organism development
How many chromosomes do humans typically have?
Humans typically have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs)
What are the two types of chromosomes in humans?
22 pairs of autosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes (XX for females and XY for males)
How can cells with the same DNA have different structures and functions?
Different genes are activated or silenced in different cells, leading to different structures and functions
What are stem cells?
Undifferentiated cells with the ability to divide and differentiate into various cell types
What are progenitor cells?
Partially differentiated cells that can only develop into a limited number of cell types
What are terminally differentiated cells?
Fully differentiated cells that have a specific function and cannot change into other types of cells
How are stem cell pools maintained?
Through a process called asymmetric division
What occurs during DNA replication that can lead to cancer?
Copying mistakes can occur, leading to mutations
What are proto-oncogenes?
Genes that normally help cells grow
What happens when proto-oncogenes are mutated?
They can turn into oncogenes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth
What is the role of tumor suppressor genes?
They prevent cells from dividing uncontrollably
What can happen when tumor suppressor genes are mutated?
Inactivation can lead to cancer
What is one characteristic of cancer cells?
Lack of apoptosis
What does uncontrolled proliferation in cancer cells mean?
Cancer cells divide uncontrollably, bypassing normal regulatory mechanisms
What is angiogenesis in the context of cancer?
The process by which cancer cells stimulate the growth of new blood vessels
What is metastasis?
The ability of cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body
How can cancer damage the body?
By interfering with normal tissue function, consuming nutrients, and causing organ failure
What is complete dominance in genetics?
One allele completely masks the expression of the other
What is an example of incomplete dominance?
Crossing red (RR) and white (WW) flowers results in pink (RW) flowers
What is codominance?
Both alleles are equally expressed
What is sex-linked inheritance?
Traits controlled by genes located on the sex chromosomes
Why are males more likely to express X-linked traits?
They only have one X chromosome
