Progression through the cell cycle is regulated by oscillations in theconcentration of which type of molecule?a. p53, Rb, and other tumor suppressorsb. receptor tyrosine kinasesc. cyclinsd. cyclin-dependent kinases

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the cell cycle is a series of phases that cells go through as they grow and divide.
2. Recognize that the progression through the cell cycle is tightly regulated to ensure proper cell division.
3. Identify that specific molecules are responsible for regulating the cell cycle by oscillating in concentration.
4. Recall that cyclins are proteins whose concentrations vary cyclically during the cell cycle, activating cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) at specific points.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is the type of molecule that oscillates in concentration to regulate the cell cycle, which is cyclins.

Key Concepts

Cell Cycle Regulation

The cell cycle is a series of phases that a cell goes through to divide and replicate. Regulation of this cycle is crucial for proper cell function and involves various proteins that ensure the cell only progresses to the next phase when conditions are favorable. Disruptions in this regulation can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, which is a hallmark of cancer.

Cyclins

Cyclins are a family of proteins that play a key role in regulating the cell cycle. Their concentrations fluctuate throughout the cycle, activating cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) when they reach specific levels. This activation is essential for the transition between different phases of the cell cycle, such as from G1 to S phase, ensuring that the cell is ready for DNA replication.

Cyclin-Dependent Kinases (CDKs)

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are enzymes that, when activated by binding to cyclins, phosphorylate target proteins to drive the cell cycle forward. The activity of CDKs is tightly regulated by the availability of cyclins and other inhibitors, ensuring that the cell cycle progresses in a controlled manner. This regulation is critical for maintaining genomic integrity and preventing tumorigenesis.