1. Regulating the Cell Cycle
Why is this even important?

2. Can we cure cancer?

3. If we want to cure cancer....
We must understand what causes is. That means understanding the cell cycle.
Cancer really is just your cells doing things they aren't supposed to do.

4. Cells divide at different rates, depending on the cell type
--Nerve and muscle cells usually stop dividing once developed
--Skin cells divide frequently as skin is being replaced constantly

5. What controls cell division?
Cell cycle regulators
Cyclin
Internal regulators
External regulators
Check out this game over the regulation of the Cell Cycle at
Also this animation describe the CHECKPOINTS that occur during the cell cycle

6. Checkpoints
There are strict checkpoints in the cell cycle to ensure that each stage does not start before the last one has finished. Other checkpoints prevent cells dividing when their DNA is damaged - either allowing time to repair the damage or, if the DNA is too damaged, causing cell death.

7. Cancer = uncontrolled cell growth
When control of the cell cycle fails, cells begin to divide uncontrollably, resulting in masses and failure of the cells to perform their normal functions. This condition is called cancer.
Causes: environmental, genetic, viruses
*Viruses such as HPV, also called human papillomavirus are known to be linked to cervical cancer.

8. Cancer vaccines?
Gardasil is a vaccine that protects against HPV and can therefore protect females from certain kinds of cervical cancer. This vaccine must be administered at a very young age before sexual activity. Some states want to require this vaccine for all young girls.
Do you think the government should require this vaccine?
More information at CDC.

9. STEM CELLS
Unspecialized cells that have the potential to differentiate (to become any type of cell)

10. Stem cells can be found in:
Human embryos
Some adult cells
Cord blood
The use of embryonic stem cells is controversial. Why?

11. Potential Uses for Stem Cells
Repair injuries of the brain and spinal cord
Cure some diseases (diabetes)
Replace organs (liver tissue, heart valves)

12. Examine this image. What is this image describing
Examine this image. What is this image describing? How do you feel about it?