What are the phases of the cell cycle?

The stages of the cell cycle: from beginning to end

He cell cycle is the process by which Cells duplicate and give rise to new ones . Or, to put it another way, it is the cycle of reproduction of the same. For this reason, it is convenient to know these steps and their practical consequences at all times. Basically, there are two major phases that are the interface and the mitosis which, in turn, are divided into several subphases. And if there is a mutation at a certain point, it can cause problems for development and offspring.

Cell cycle: Interphase

By far the most time, cells are in the Interphase stage . The reason? This is the stage of growth, chromosome expansion, and preparation for cell duplication to finally occur. Therefore, it's good to know what each of these stages entails. Take note, this might interest you:

1. Phase G1

The G1 subphase It is synthesizing, or if we use more colloquial terminology, "preparation". It begins with the birth of the cell, which is approximately half the size it would be under normal conditions, and in this part of interphase what is done is synthesize RNA and proteins . Somehow, the process is triggered so that these proteins grow, so it's key that it works well.

2. Phase S

The subphase S is that of DNA replication , where it is synthesized, as well as chromatin and epigenetic information, among other data. But, in addition, another phenomenon also occurs, which is the duplication of the centrosomes when they are cells of animal organisms . In other words, replication is the beginning of the phase, which culminates in duplication, with the synthesis of enzymes and histones .

3. Phase G2

The G2 subphase focuses, in this case, on the growth of the cell for prepare for do the division . Here, for example, synthesizes organelles , but also begins to distribute his content of homogeneous form for the cell to divide. Therefore, it is a key moment for the work to be done.

Mitosis

The mitosis It is the process in which the cell properly speaking is divided for generate new cells . These new cells will be exactly the same as the parent cell from which they originated. And, once again, we find four subphases from the beginning to the end of the process. However, in the cell cycle, it usually lasts less than interphase.

1. Cell cycle: Prophase

The first thing to do, in this case, is condense the genetic material , through nuclear chromatin. This subphase could be easily noticed with a microscope. The approximate duration is 40% from the time of the mitosis .

2. Metaphase

The metaphase It is a moment of alignment , because what chromosomes do is align themselves in the center of the cell, specifically in the nucleus. In this way, they prepare to function in the next phase.

3. Anaphase

This subphase consists of the stretching and separation of the chromosomes , which causes the cell to stretch as well. The chromatids eventually position themselves at the ends of the cell. In a way, they are preparing to undergo division and complete the process.

4. Telophase

Finally, during telophase the chromosomes decondense to create chromatin and a cell is created around each chromosome nuclear membrane . In this way, the two different cells are generated and the process begins again.

When do genetic mutations occur?

The genetic mutations They usually occur in several phases of the cell cycle. However, it is most common for this to happen during the  interface and, specifically, in the S subphase . The reason? That this is when DNA is duplicated, and sometimes replicated incorrectly.

It should also be noted that, in In other phases , mutations are also generated. Environmental factors play a big role, so we have to take that into account as well, as well as errors when DNA is repaired. And in the mitosis There are possibilities of mutations, because when chromosomes segregate, there may be unexpected variations.

In many cases, we can know, thanks to a Genetic testing , the likelihood of developing diseases. However, mutations and the timing of their occurrence may not be precisely pinpointed. Hence, mutation is a phenomenon that can occur at various times.

What types of genetic mutations can occur during the cell cycle?

The types of mutations that can occur during the cell cycle There are several factors that will influence potential offspring. We highlight the following for their relevance:

1. Duplication and triplication: This occurs when a chromosome is duplicated. These types of mutations are commonly referred to as trisomies.
2. Investment: This type of mutation occurs when a chromosome has a different meaning than it would normally have.
3. Translocation: This phenomenon occurs most frequently when DNA is manipulated. What happens here is basically a change in the position of a part of the chromosome.
4. Deletion: Here, the mutation is essentially the loss of a part of the chromosome, which may be larger or smaller. Hence, it's important to know.
5. Cell cycle checkpoint mutations . We've talked about cell cycles before. Well, if there are any mutations in the genes who are in charge of regulate the cycle , there will be problems in the future.

As we can see, there is significant importance because a mutation has a significant impact on health. Many genetic diseases are caused specifically by this circumstance.

In summary…

Know the phases of the cell cycle It's essential to know when and how mutations that can cause diseases occur. Therefore, it's good to have an idea of ​​what's happening at all times. Do you need genetic testing? Genotics We provide a comparison of options so you can choose the one that best suits your circumstances. Contact us to find out more!