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32
0
<3
09/10/2025
Biology
Topic Three alevel biology
970
•
9 Oct 2025
•
Cell Division, Cancer, and Stem Cells in A Level Biology
<3
@cirice
The Cell Cycle and Related Concepts in A-Level Biology
This page covers several crucial topics in A-level Biology, focusing on the cell cycle stages and cancer in A-level biology questions, as well as related concepts such as stem cells, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structures, and genetic processes.
The Cell Cycle
The cell cycle is divided into distinct phases, with interphase being a critical period:
- G1 phase: DNA is checked for damage and cell size is assessed
- S phase: DNA replication occurs (not explicitly mentioned but implied)
- G2 phase: Chromosomes are checked for proper replication
- M phase (Mitosis): Sister chromatids are confirmed to be attached to the spindle
Highlight: Uncontrolled cell cycle progression can lead to cancer, emphasizing the importance of cell cycle regulation.
Mitosis and Growth
Mitosis plays a crucial role in:
- Growth of multicellular organisms through increasing cell count
- Asexual reproduction, producing clonal organisms
- Somatic cell reproduction
Stem Cells
The document discusses various types of stem cells:
Definition: Totipotent stem cells are the most unspecialized and can produce any type of body cell.
Vocabulary: Pluripotent stem cells can develop into a limited number of cell types and are found in early mammalian embryos.
Example: Multipotent stem cells, such as those found in bone marrow, can develop into a limited number of cell types and are used in treatments like bone marrow transplants.
Highlight: Stem cells have numerous applications, including treating blood and immune disorders, drug research, and growing artificial tissues for drug testing.
Gametes and Fertilization
The text briefly touches on gametes and their specialization:
- Sperm cells have mitochondria for energy and an acrosome for penetrating the egg
- Egg cells are larger, with nutrient-rich cytoplasm and a zona pellucida to prevent polyspermy
Prokaryotic Cells
Key structures of prokaryotic cells are outlined:
- Circular DNA
- Capsule for moisture retention and surface adhesion
- Flagellum for movement
- Pili for genetic material exchange
- 70S ribosomes for protein synthesis
Eukaryotic Cells
The document provides a brief overview of eukaryotic cell features:
- Oval shape with a double membrane
- Linear chromosomes
- Nucleus containing proteins, DNA, and RNA
- Various organelles including the endoplasmic reticulum and centrioles
Vocabulary: The lac operon is mentioned as an example of bacterial gene organization, which is relevant to prokaryotic DNA vs eukaryotic DNA A-Level Biology comparisons.
Genetic Concepts
The page touches on several genetic concepts:
- Meiosis and its role in genetic variation
- Linkage and sex-linked genes
- Epigenetics and its role in gene regulation
Definition: Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself.
This comprehensive overview provides students with a solid foundation for understanding complex biological processes and their relevance to human health and disease, which is crucial for cell cycle A-Level Biology questions and related topics.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Cell Division, Cancer, and Stem Cells in A Level Biology
<3
@cirice
The cell cycle and its relationship to cancer, along with key concepts in cell biology and genetics, are explored in this A-level Biology guide. The document covers topics such as stem cells, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structures, meiosis, fertilization, and... Show more
The Cell Cycle and Related Concepts in A-Level Biology
This page covers several crucial topics in A-level Biology, focusing on the cell cycle stages and cancer in A-level biology questions, as well as related concepts such as stem cells, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structures, and genetic processes.
The Cell Cycle
The cell cycle is divided into distinct phases, with interphase being a critical period:
- G1 phase: DNA is checked for damage and cell size is assessed
- S phase: DNA replication occurs (not explicitly mentioned but implied)
- G2 phase: Chromosomes are checked for proper replication
- M phase (Mitosis): Sister chromatids are confirmed to be attached to the spindle
Highlight: Uncontrolled cell cycle progression can lead to cancer, emphasizing the importance of cell cycle regulation.
Mitosis and Growth
Mitosis plays a crucial role in:
- Growth of multicellular organisms through increasing cell count
- Asexual reproduction, producing clonal organisms
- Somatic cell reproduction
Stem Cells
The document discusses various types of stem cells:
Definition: Totipotent stem cells are the most unspecialized and can produce any type of body cell.
Vocabulary: Pluripotent stem cells can develop into a limited number of cell types and are found in early mammalian embryos.
Example: Multipotent stem cells, such as those found in bone marrow, can develop into a limited number of cell types and are used in treatments like bone marrow transplants.
Highlight: Stem cells have numerous applications, including treating blood and immune disorders, drug research, and growing artificial tissues for drug testing.
Gametes and Fertilization
The text briefly touches on gametes and their specialization:
- Sperm cells have mitochondria for energy and an acrosome for penetrating the egg
- Egg cells are larger, with nutrient-rich cytoplasm and a zona pellucida to prevent polyspermy
Prokaryotic Cells
Key structures of prokaryotic cells are outlined:
- Circular DNA
- Capsule for moisture retention and surface adhesion
- Flagellum for movement
- Pili for genetic material exchange
- 70S ribosomes for protein synthesis
Eukaryotic Cells
The document provides a brief overview of eukaryotic cell features:
- Oval shape with a double membrane
- Linear chromosomes
- Nucleus containing proteins, DNA, and RNA
- Various organelles including the endoplasmic reticulum and centrioles
Vocabulary: The lac operon is mentioned as an example of bacterial gene organization, which is relevant to prokaryotic DNA vs eukaryotic DNA A-Level Biology comparisons.
Genetic Concepts
The page touches on several genetic concepts:
- Meiosis and its role in genetic variation
- Linkage and sex-linked genes
- Epigenetics and its role in gene regulation
Definition: Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself.
This comprehensive overview provides students with a solid foundation for understanding complex biological processes and their relevance to human health and disease, which is crucial for cell cycle A-Level Biology questions and related topics.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user