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.

Answer 1

When you are sick and unable to eat, your body does not have access to the nutrients it needs for energy and cellular function. In the context of the cell cycle, this lack of nutrition would primarily affect the growth and division of cells throughout the cycle.

The most appropriate response to your question would be:

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

Without adequate nutrients, the cells may not be able to progress through the various phases of the cell cycle efficiently. These phases involve growth (steps D and A) as well as DNA replication (step B). Inadequate nutrition can lead to a slowdown in these processes, which means cells will not grow properly and may not proceed to divide when they are supposed to. This could ultimately result in reduced cell numbers and impaired tissue function, contributing to a weakened immune response and overall vitality while you are sick.