The Cell Cycle and Mitosis

Every multicellular organism begins as a single cell and grows into a body of trillions of cells. Damaged tissues heal, and worn-out cells are constantly replaced. All of this depends on cell division, an orderly process governed by the cell cycle.

Overview of the Cell Cycle

The cell cycle is the sequence of events from one cell division to the next. It is divided into two major stages: interphase, the long growth and preparation period, and the mitotic (M) phase, when the cell actually divides. Mitosis produces two genetically identical diploid daughter cells, making it essential for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.

Interphase

Interphase occupies most of a cell's life and is far from a resting stage. It is subdivided into three parts:

• G1 phase (first gap): The cell grows, produc