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Organisms consist of cells that
multiply through cell division. Before a cell can
divide it has to grow in size, duplicate its
chromosomes and separate the chromosomes for
distribution between the two daughter cells. These
different processes are coordinated in the cell
cycle.
The cell cycle consists of
several phases. In the first phase (G1) the cell
grows. When it has reached its appropriate size it
enters the phase of DNA-synthesis (S), where the
chromosomes are duplicated. During the next phase
(G2) the cell prepares for division. In mitosis (M)
the chromosomes separate, and the cell divides into
two daughter cells. Through this mechanism the
daughter cells receive identical sets of chromosomes.
After division, the cells are back in G1 and the cell
cycle is completed. This year's Nobel Laureates have
discovered fundamental mechanisms controlling the
cell cycle. CDK and cyclin drive the cell from one
phase to the next in the cell cycle.
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