Where are the major regulatory points in the cell cycle?

Key Concepts

Cell Cycle Phases

The cell cycle consists of several phases: G1 (gap 1), S (synthesis), G2 (gap 2), and M (mitosis). Each phase has specific functions, such as cell growth, DNA replication, and cell division. Understanding these phases is crucial for identifying where regulatory points occur.

Regulatory Checkpoints

Regulatory checkpoints are critical control points in the cell cycle that ensure proper progression. The main checkpoints are G1, G2, and the M phase checkpoint. These checkpoints assess whether the cell is ready to proceed to the next phase, preventing errors such as DNA damage or incomplete replication.

Cyclins and Cyclin-Dependent Kinases (CDKs)

Cyclins are proteins that regulate the cell cycle by activating cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). The binding of cyclins to CDKs triggers the phosphorylation of target proteins, driving the cell through different phases. The levels of cyclins fluctuate throughout the cycle, coordinating the timing of cell cycle events.