The Cell Cycle
MolecularInsights into Cell Division and Genome Regulation
Presented by: Group 1 (1 to 16)
BIOCHEMISTRY
2.
Introduction to theCell Cycle
The cell cycle is a vital process. It ensures accurate DNA
replication. Cells grow, duplicate DNA, and divide. This
precise sequence safeguards genetic material. Every cell
division demands DNA integrity.
3.
Phases of theCell Cycle
1
G1 Phase
Cell grows. Proteins synthesize. DNA is relaxed,
unreplicated.
2 S Phase
DNA replication occurs. Chromosomes duplicate. Sister
chromatids form.
3
G2 Phase
Further cell growth. DNA checked for errors. Prepares for
division.
4 M Phase
Mitosis: Chromosomes segregate. Nuclei divide.
5
Cytokinesis
Physical cell division. Two new cells form.
4.
DNA Replication inS Phase
DNA replication begins at origins. It proceeds
bidirectionally. DNA polymerases synthesize new strands.
This ensures identical genomes. Helicase unwinds DNA.
SSBs stabilize it. Ligase rejoins fragments. Proofreading
corrects errors. Mismatch repair provides fidelity.
5.
Mitosis – Distributionof DNA
Prophase
Chromatin condenses. Chromosomes become visible. Spindle fibers begin forming.
Metaphase
Chromosomes align centrally. They attach to spindle fibers.
Anaphase
Sister chromatids separate. They move to opposite poles.
Telophase
Nuclear envelopes reform. Chromosomes de-condense. Spindle disappears.
Cytokinesis
Cytoplasm divides. Two identical daughter cells form.
6.
Meiosis – Formationof Gametes
Meiosis is a specialized cell division process essential for
sexual reproduction. It reduces the chromosome number
by half, producing gametes such as sperm and egg cells.
This process occurs in two main stages: Meiosis I and
Meiosis II. This reduction is crucial for maintaining a
constant chromosome number across generations after
fertilization, ensuring vital genetic diversity.
7.
Meiosis I: ReductionalDivision
1. Prophase I: The longest and most complex phase. Chromatin condenses, homologous chromosomes pair up to form
bivalents (synapsis), and crossing-over occurs, exchanging genetic material between non-sister chromatids. This genetic
recombination is a primary source of genetic variation.
2. Metaphase I: Homologous pairs align randomly along the metaphase plate, ready for separation. Independent
assortment of these pairs contributes significantly to genetic diversity.
3. Anaphase I: Homologous chromosomes separate and move to opposite poles of the cell. Sister chromatids remain
attached.
4. Telophase I & Cytokinesis I: Chromosomes decondense, nuclear envelopes may reform, and the cytoplasm divides,
resulting in two haploid cells, each with replicated chromosomes (sister chromatids).
8.
Meiosis II: EquationalDivision
Meiosis II is very similar to mitosis but starts with haploid cells. No further DNA replication occurs before Meiosis II.
1. Prophase II: Chromosomes condense again, and spindle fibers form in each of the two haploid cells.
2. Metaphase II: Sister chromatids align along the metaphase plate in each cell.
3. Anaphase II: Sister chromatids finally separate and move to opposite poles, becoming individual chromosomes.
4. Telophase II & Cytokinesis II: Nuclear envelopes reform around the separated chromosomes, and the cytoplasm divides
in each cell. This results in a total of four genetically unique haploid gametes from the original diploid cell.
9.
Regulation of theCell Cycle
Cyclins
Regulate CDK activity. Their levels
fluctuate.
CDKs
Cyclin-dependent kinases.
Phosphorylate proteins. Drive cell
progression.
2
Checkpoints
Ensure cell readiness. Prevent errors.
Safeguard DNA integrity.
Dysregulation
Loss of control. Leads to cancer.
Uncontrolled proliferation.
10.
Clinical Relevance –Cancer and Therapeutics
Uncontrolled cell growth leads to tumors. Mutations in p53,
RB, BRCA1/2 disrupt control. Chemotherapy targets
dividing cells. Doxorubicin and paclitaxel are common
agents. Novel therapies inhibit CDKs. Checkpoint regulators
are promising. Future treatments focus on precision.
11.
Conclusion
Regulated Process
Cell cycleis tightly controlled.
Linked to DNA synthesis.
Essential for segregation.
Profound Implications
Understanding its regulation
is key. Impacts developmental
biology. Crucial for genetics.
Cancer Treatment
Insights drive new therapies. Targeted approaches emerge. Hope
for future cures.