key term - Cyclins

Definition

Cyclins are proteins that regulate the progression of the cell cycle by binding to cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). They control when certain checkpoints occur during different phases of the cell cycle.

Related terms

CDKs (Cyclin-dependent kinases): These are enzymes that become activated when bound to specific cyclins. Together with cyclins, they regulate key events in the cell cycle.

Checkpoints:

Cyclins work together with CDKs to ensure that important stages in the cell cycle are completed accurately before allowing progression.

Cell Division:

A process in which one parent cell splits into two daughter cells during mitosis or meiosis.