Introduction

What exactly does cell division mean? How do we get from one cell to two cells? The simple answer is that a single cell divides to form two so-called daughter cells. For the daughter cells to have the complete set of proteins they need to live and function normally; both must receive the genetic material that contains the blueprint for all those proteins. In other words, both daughter cells must receive the full complement of DNA, in the form of chromosomes. Additionally, the parent cell must have sufficient cytoplasm, membranes, and organelles to split evenly and distribute to the two daughter cells. Once these requirements have been met, the cell can begin the process of dividing into two.

This video explains the basics of cell division.

Summary

Cell Division occurs in biological systems to perform the following functions:

• Transmission of Genetic Information – To survive after cell division, each progeny cell must receive a complete set of genes, and therefore a complete set of chromosomes.
• Growth and Development –
• Sexual/Asexual Reproduction –
• Asexual reproduction, each offspring receives an identical set of genetic material from the parent.  Because of this, each offspring would be considered a ‘clone’ of the parent.
• In sexual reproduction, genetic information is contributed and combined from two parents.  In this case, each parent contributes gametes (examples would be sperm or egg) which fuse together to create a new offspring.
• Cells in your body belong to specialized tissues where they perform specific functions. The process of ‘specialization’ for different cell types is called ‘differentiation.’

Sources:

“Asexual and sexual reproduction.” Kahn Academy. Retrieved from: https://youtu.be/g59s153t_6Q Licensed under: Standard YouTube License