Chapter 3 The cell cycle

CHAPTER

→ binary fission in prokaryotic cells → the eukaryotic cell cycle, including the characteristics of each of the sub-phases of mitosis and cytokinesis in plant and animal cells → apoptosis as a regulated process of programmed cell death → disruption to the regulation of the cell cycle and malfunctions in apoptosis that may result in deviant cell behaviour: cancer and the characteristics of cancer cells → properties of stem cells that allow for differentiation, specialisation and renewal of cells and tissues, including the concepts of pluripotency and totipotency Source: VCE Biology Study Design (2022–2026) reproduced by permission © VCAA KEY KNOWLEDGE 3 The cell cycle All multicellular organisms need to replicate their cells to grow, replace and repair their bodies. The cell cycle is a process that involves phases of normal growth followed by replication to produce genetically identical daughter cells. When this process goes wrong, cells can undergo abnormal growth and replication, which results in cancerous cells. At different stages of cell division, there are cellular checkpoints that control division and prevent abnormal growth. DRAFT ONLY - NOT FOR SALE

FIGURE 1 The cell cycle describes the life cycle and replication of a cell. This image is of binary fission – one cell has replicated its genetic material and the two daughter cells are splitting apart.

GROUNDWORK QUESTIONS

Before you start this chapter, try the following groundwork questions. If you need help with any of the questions, have a go at the corresponding groundwork resource on your obook pro. 3A Explain why a multicellular organism might need new cells. 3B How many chromosomes are there in human body cells? 3C Explain why cell division and cell multiplication mean the same thing in biology. 3A Groundwork resource Multicellular organisms 3B Groundwork resource Chromosomes

3C Groundwork resource Cell division PRACTICALS PRACTICAL 3.2 Stages of mitosis For full instructions for each practical, go to Chapter 11 Practical work. For additional practical support, including video demonstrations, risk assessments and lab tech notes, go to your obook pro. DRAFT ONLY - NOT FOR SALE