Question 1

Which phase of the cell cycle is characterized by cell growth, normal metabolic functions, and DNA replication?

Accepted Answer

Interphase

Question 2

During which stage of mitosis do chromosomes align at the center of the cell?

Accepted Answer

Metaphase

Question 3

What is the function of tumor suppressor genes such as p53 and BRCA1 in the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

They inhibit cell cycle progression when DNA is damaged

Question 4

Which enzyme is responsible for adding nucleotides to a growing DNA strand during replication?

Accepted Answer

DNA polymerase

Question 5

A cell is observed to have chromosomes separated and moving toward opposite poles. Which stage of mitosis is this?

Accepted Answer

Anaphase

Question 6

Which of the following best describes semi-conservative replication of DNA?

Accepted Answer

Each new DNA molecule contains one old and one new strand

Question 7

If a mutation occurs in a proto-oncogene, what is the most likely consequence for the cell?

Accepted Answer

The cell may begin to divide uncontrollably

Question 8

Which checkpoint in the cell cycle ensures that all chromosomes are properly attached to the spindle before proceeding?

Accepted Answer

M checkpoint

Question 9

What is the role of telomerase in cancer cells?

Accepted Answer

It extends telomeres, allowing cells to divide indefinitely

Question 10

Which of the following equations correctly represents the complementary base pairing in DNA?

Accepted Answer

$A = T$

Question 11

A patient’s cells show loss of contact inhibition and failure to undergo apoptosis. Which process is most likely disrupted?

Accepted Answer

Normal cell cycle regulation

Question 12

Which enzyme joins Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand during DNA replication?

Accepted Answer

DNA ligase

Question 13

If a cell fails the G2 checkpoint, what is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

The cell will undergo apoptosis or repair

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a function of cyclins in the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

Repairing DNA damage

Question 15

A scientist observes a cell with condensed chromosomes, a nuclear envelope breaking down, and spindle fibers forming. Which stage is this?

Accepted Answer

Prophase

Question 16

Which process ensures genetic continuity during cell division?

Accepted Answer

Semi-conservative DNA replication

Question 17

What is the primary difference between cancer cells and normal cells regarding cell cycle regulation?

Accepted Answer

Cancer cells ignore cell cycle checkpoints

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the role of the spindle apparatus during mitosis?

Accepted Answer

It separates sister chromatids

Question 19

A cell is exposed to a chemical that inhibits DNA polymerase. What is the most likely effect?

Accepted Answer

DNA replication will be halted

Question 20

Which of the following is a direct result of the lack of apoptosis in cancer cells?

Accepted Answer

Uncontrolled cell proliferation

The Cell Cycle & Cancer: Study Guide and Learning Targets

Study Guide - Practice Questions