This is a model of the cell cycle. During this cycle, cells grow and divide. This cycle is responsible for our growth, on a bigger scale. Imagine that you are sick and cannot eat. Explain what will happen on the cellular level? Use the model to help you answer the question.

Question

Responses
A The cell will produce fewer new cells at step C.The cell will produce fewer new cells at step C.
B The cell will not grow as much through steps D - A- B.The cell will not grow as much through steps D - A- B.
C The cell will not grow as much through steps D - B and may not divide.The cell will not grow as much through steps D - B and may not divide.
D The cell will not grow through steps D - A - B and will produce smaller cells at C.The cell will not grow through steps D - A - B and will produce smaller cells at C.

Answer 1

When a person is sick and cannot eat, their body may have reduced availability of nutrients essential for cellular processes. In the context of the cell cycle, this can impact various phases of growth and division.

Given the choices provided, one of the most appropriate responses would be:

C. The cell will not grow as much through steps D - B and may not divide.

Explanation:

• Cell Growth and Divison (Steps D - A - B): During the cell cycle, cells go through growth (G1), DNA replication (S), preparation for division (G2), and finally mitosis (M). If a person is not consuming food, the lack of nutrients will hinder these processes.

• Step D (G1 Phase): Nutrient deficiencies can lead to reduced energy availability, which means the cell can't effectively proceed through the initial growth stages.

• Step B (G2 Phase): Similarly, preparation for division may be compromised, as the cell requires adequate resources to synthesize the components needed to duplicate its DNA and prepare for mitosis.

Thus, due to the lack of sufficient nutrients from not eating, the cells will not be able to grow or may not effectively complete the division process, supporting option C as the most accurate response.