Why is the cell cycle important?

The cell cycle, also known as the cell division cycle, is a series of processes that causes a cell to split into two daughter cells. The duplication of its DNA and some of its organelles, followed by the division of its cytoplasm or other elements into two daughter cells in a process known as cell division, are among these occurrences. The cell cycle in cells with nuclei is separated into two stages: interphase and mitotic (M) phase. The cell expands during interphase, gathering nutrients for mitosis and replicating its DNA and some organelles. The replicated organelles, cytoplasm and chromosomes divide into two new daughter cells during the mitotic phase.

What is cell type?

Prevost and Dumas (1824) discovered the cell cycle while researching the cleavage of a frog zygote. A cell goes through various steps to divide and make new cells. The organised series of events in a cell in preparation for cell division is known as the cell cycle. On their way to cell division, cells pass through a series of carefully regulated and controlled stages of growth, cell division and DNA replication that result in two genetically identical cells. The cell cycle is divided into four stages, during which the cell develops in bulk, prepares for cell division, and divides. The cell cycle has four stages:

  • G1 phase
  • G0 phase
  • S phase
  • G2 phase

What are the different stages of the cell cycle?

A cell must do various essential tasks to divide into others: it grows, copies its genetic material referred to as DNA, and physically divides into two daughter cells. The cell cycle is a predictable and orderly group of phases in which cells performs different functions. The eukaryotic cells have two cycles of phases: mitotic (M) and interphase phase.

The cell divides and duplicates its DNA during interphase. In the mitotic (M) phase, the cell splits cytoplasm, divides its DNA into two sets, and forms 2 new cells.

Interphase

G1 Phase of Cell Cycle: This is the first interphase phase, which begins at the end of the previous M phase and lasts until DNA synthesis begins. The G1 phase is also known as the growth phase since the cell’s biosynthetic activities are at their peak. The cell’s protein supply grows, as does the number of cell organelles.

The G0 phase: This is the resting phase of the cell cycle, and cells in this phase are known as resting cells. Neurons, for example, enter this phase after exiting the cell cycle and never divide again. Cells enter a resting state when deprived of nutrition or growth stimuli. G0 cells typically have fewer ribosomes and RNA than their cycling G1 counterparts. They also produce protein at a pace that is less than half that of G1. When a G0 cell is stimulated to expand by growth hormones or nutrients, the protein synthesis rate changes, which usually coincides with an influence on the chromosomal cycle.

S Phase of Interphase: This is the third stage in the cell cycle sequence, and it occurs between the G1 and G2 phases. The word S stands for synthesis, and it is a highly specialised phase of interphase. In this phase, DNA synthesis takes place. A cell must make a fresh copy of its chromosomes before it may divide.

G2 Phase of Cell Cycle: The G2 phase of the cell cycle is the time between the end of the S phase and mitosis. Interphase is usually the shortest component of the process. During this period, there is a lot of cellular synthesis going on. Mitochondria and chloroplasts divide, increasing energy storage.

Why is the cell cycle important?

Cell division is crucial for all living species since it is required for growth, repair, and reproduction. This procedure aids in:

  • This process replaces damaged cells
  • Older cells are used to make new ones
  • The entire number of chromosomes is maintained
  • Increases the number of cells available for growth and development
  • Repairs and maintains the health of the cells
  • Additionally, it aids in the survival and growth of biological organisms
  • It is in charge of an individual’s shape, size, and healthy growth and development
  • Mitosis aids in the development of new parts and the repair of damaged ones in plants

Conclusion

In the above chapter, we have read about the importance of the cell cycle. The cell cycle is a well-ordered sequence of cell growth & division events that result in the formation of two new daughter cells. On their way to cell division, cells go through a series of carefully planned and regulated development stages, replication of DNA, & division that results in the formation of two identical cells. The cell cycle is divided into two phases: interphase and mitosis. During interphase, the cell expands, and DNA is recycled. The replicated DNA and cytoplasmic contents are divided during the mitotic phase & cell divides.