Protein Control of Cell Division Flashcards
What is the cytoskeleton?
Network of protein fibres that extend throughout the cytoplasm in all eukaryotic cells
Function of the cytoskeleton
Gives mechanical support and shape to cells
The cytoskeleton consists of…
Different proteins including microtubules
What are microtubules?
Hollow cylinders composed of the protein tubulin
Radiate from the microtubule organising centre (MTOC) or centrosome
Function of microtubules
Control the movement of membrane-bound organelles and chromosomes
Cell division requires the…
Remodelling of the cytoskeleton
What is the remodelling of the cytoskeleton?
Formation and breakdown of microtubules, involves polymerisation (growth) and depolymerisation (shrinkage) of tubulin
Microtubules form…
Spindle fibres that are active during cell division
What does the cell cycle regulate?
The growth and replacement of genetically identical cells throughout the life of the organism
2 stages of cell cycle…
Interphase
Mitotic (M) Phase
Interphase involves…
G1- a growth phase
S phase- DNA is replicated
G2- a further growth phase (of organelles and proteins)
(preparation for mitosis)
Mitotic phase involves…
Mitosis- chromosomal material is separated by the spindle microtubules
Cytokinesis- cytoplasm is separated into 2 daughter cells
4 stages of mitosis
Prophase
Metaphase
Anaphase
Telophase
What happens during prophase?
DNA condenses into chromosomes (consist of 2 sister chromatids)
Nuclear membrane breaks down, spindle microtubules extend from MTOC by polymerisation and attach to chromosomes via their kinetochores in the centromere region
What happens during metaphase?
Chromosomes are aligned at the metaphase plate (equator of the spindle)
What happens during anaphase?
As spindle microtubules shorten by depolymerisation, sister chromatids are separated and chromosomes are pulled to opposite poles
What happens during telophase?
Chromosomes decondense and nuclear membranes are formed around them (each set of chromosomes)