Cells reproduce by splitting in half, a process called cell division. What do cells need to do between divisions to make sure that they don't just get smaller and smaller?
Cells need to undergo a process called cell growth or interphase between divisions to ensure that they don't get smaller and smaller.
During interphase, cells engage in various activities necessary for growth and preparation for division. These activities include:
1. Cell metabolism: Cells actively produce energy and carry out essential biochemical processes to fuel growth and maintain cellular functions.
2. DNA replication: Before dividing, cells need to duplicate their genetic material (DNA) to ensure that each daughter cell will receive a complete set of chromosomes.
3. Protein synthesis: Cells synthesize proteins needed for various cellular processes, including growth, repair, and maintenance of cellular structures.
4. Organelle replication: Cells replicate their organelles (such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus) to ensure that each daughter cell will have sufficient organelles to carry out necessary cellular functions.
5. Increase in cell size: To prevent getting smaller, cells grow in size during interphase by increasing their cytoplasmic volume and accumulating necessary nutrients and molecules.
By undergoing these growth activities during interphase, cells ensure that they have enough resources and materials to divide into two daughter cells that are roughly the same size as the parent cell.