G1 Phase: A Guide to Cell Growth and DNA Preparation in the Cell Cycle

G1 phase

cell grows and makes proteins

G1 phase, also known as Gap 1 phase, is the first stage in the interphase of the cell cycle. It is the period of cell growth and metabolic activity that prepares the cell for DNA replication. G1 phase is typically the longest phase of the cell cycle, lasting from several hours to several days depending on the cell type.

During G1 phase, the cell synthesizes new proteins and organelles, and increases its size in preparation for DNA synthesis. The cell also checks its DNA for damage and integrity, and repairs any damage that is found before moving on to the next phase. If the DNA damage cannot be repaired, the cell may undergo apoptosis, or programmed cell death, to prevent the spread of mutations.

At the end of G1 phase, the cell passes through a checkpoint called the G1-to-S checkpoint, which determines whether the cell is ready to enter the next phase, S phase, where DNA replication occurs. If the cell passes the checkpoint, it commits to completing the entire cell cycle. If the cell does not pass the checkpoint, it enters G0, a resting phase where the cell continues to carry out its normal functions but does not progress through the cell cycle.

In summary, G1 phase is a critical period in the cell cycle where the cell grows, prepares for DNA replication, and checks its DNA integrity before moving on to the next phase.

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