celledelingslivets

The term celledelingslivets, Danish for "the life of cell division," refers to the collection of processes that govern how cells replicate their genetic material and divide to form daughter cells, as well as the regulation and consequences of these events in organisms. It encompasses both mitotic division in somatic cells and meiotic division in germ cells, together with the broader context of cell-cycle control and tissue homeostasis.

The core of celledelingslivet is the cell cycle. In somatic cells, this cycle includes interphase—G1, S (DNA synthesis), and G2—followed by the mitotic phase, which comprises prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, ending with cytokinesis. In germ-line cells, meiosis consists of two sequential divisions that reduce chromosome number and promote genetic variation. Across these processes, DNA replication, chromosome condensation, spindle formation, and cytokinesis coordinate to ensure accurate genetic segregation.

Regulation is a defining aspect. Progression through the cycle is governed by cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and cyclins, with checkpoints at G1/S, G2/M, and during metaphase ensuring DNA integrity and proper chromosome alignment. External cues such as growth factors influence entry into S phase, while tumor suppressor pathways maintain genome stability. Faults in celledelingslivet can lead to mutations, aneuploidy, and diseases such as cancer.

The study of celledelingslivet is central to developmental biology, tissue maintenance, and cancer research. Model organisms and cell culture systems aid understanding of conserved mechanisms and the development of therapies targeting cell-cycle regulators.