The mitotic cell cycle

In this chapter, you will learn to:

• Explain the structure of chromosomes.

• Summarize the cell cycle, describing how body cells grow to a specific size before dividing into two.

• Describe the behavior of chromosomes during mitosis, along with changes in the nuclear envelope, cell membrane, and spindle apparatus.

• Recognize and identify different stages of mitosis using photomicrographs, diagrams, and microscope slides.

• Discuss the significance of mitosis in growth and development.

• Outline the function of telomeres in chromosome protection and cell division.

• Describe the role of stem cells in tissue growth and repair.

• Explain how uncontrolled cell division can cause cancer.