During the G1 phase of the cell cycle, several important processes take place:
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Cell Growth: The cell grows physically larger, increases in size, and copies organelles.
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Protein and Organelle Synthesis: The cell makes proteins and organelles needed for normal function and prepares for DNA synthesis.
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Decision Point: The G1 phase includes a checkpoint, known as the restriction point, which determines whether the cell will proceed to the next phase of the cell cycle or enter a state of dormancy called the G0 phase.
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mRNA and Protein Synthesis: The cell synthesizes mRNA and proteins required for DNA synthesis.
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Regulation: The progression through the G1 phase is regulated by factors such as growth factors and the rate of protein synthesis.
Overall, the G1 phase is a crucial stage in the cell cycle where the cell prepares for DNA synthesis and makes the decision to either continue the cell cycle or enter a dormant state.