Solukierron

Solukierron is a Finnish term that translates roughly to "cell cycle." It refers to the series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication. This process is fundamental to the growth, development, and repair of all living organisms. The cell cycle is a tightly regulated series of checkpoints, ensuring that DNA replication is accurate and that the cell is ready to divide.

The cell cycle is broadly divided into two main phases: interphase and the mitotic phase (M phase). Interphase is the longer period where the cell grows, carries out its normal functions, and replicates its DNA. It is further subdivided into G1 (first gap), S (synthesis), and G2 (second gap) phases. During G1, the cell grows and prepares for DNA replication. In the S phase, the cell's DNA is duplicated. G2 is a period of further growth and preparation for mitosis.

The M phase includes mitosis, where the duplicated chromosomes are separated into two new nuclei, and cytokinesis, where the cytoplasm divides to form two distinct daughter cells. Mitosis itself is divided into prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. The successful completion of the cell cycle ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete and accurate copy of the parent cell's genetic material. Errors in the cell cycle can lead to uncontrolled cell division, a hallmark of cancer.