Cytoskeleton and Cell Division
The cytoskeleton plays a crucial role in eukaryotic cells, providing mechanical support and shape. Cytoskeleton structure and function is a key topic in Advanced Higher Biology notes.
Definition: The cytoskeleton consists of protein structures including microtubules, which are hollow cylinders composed of tubulin.
Microtubules are essential for cell division, controlling the movement of membrane-bound organelles and chromosomes. They form spindle fibers during cell division through polymerization and depolymerization of tubulin.
Highlight: Understanding the cytoskeleton function A Level Biology is crucial for grasping the mechanics of cell division.
The Cell Cycle
The cell cycle consists of interphase and the mitotic (M) phase. Interphase involves growth and DNA synthesis, while the M phase includes mitosis and cytokinesis.
Vocabulary: Interphase - consists of G1 (growth), S (DNA replication), and G2 (further growth) phases.
Mitosis, a key process in cell division, consists of four stages:
- Prophase
- Metaphase
- Anaphase
- Telophase
Example: During prophase, DNA condenses into chromosomes, the nuclear membrane breaks down, and spindle microtubules attach to chromosomes.
This detailed breakdown of mitosis stages is essential for Advanced Higher biology protein control of cell division notes questions.