Question

Exam revision question that I can't figure out!
The population doubling time of cells is often used to give an estimate of the cell cycle time. Give two reasons why this might give an inaccurate estimate of cell cycle time and explain why.
Sources would be useful too!

Thanks

Answer 1

There are "checkpoints" where the cell may be arrested if there is a problem. For example, if the cell has not grown enough to divide during G2 phase, it may be prevented from entering M phase and continue growing for a time. If the cell has damage to its DNA, it will not pass the restriction point into S phase until it has repaired its DNA or committed to apoptosis.

http://homepage.mac.com/enognog/checkpoint.htm

Attachment is my cell cycle cheat sheet from college, feel free to use it just please give me credit if you post it online. thanks

Answer 2

Perfect! Thanks.