
Checkpoint regulation
Checkpoint regulation is a mechanism inside cells that ensures proper division and prevents errors, such as DNA damage or chromosome missegregation. Think of it as a quality control system: checkpoints monitor cell processes, and if problems are detected, they pause or halt division until issues are corrected. This helps maintain genetic stability and prevents abnormalities like cancer. Checkpoints involve specific proteins that act as sensors and regulators, coordinating the cell cycle's progression to ensure everything is in order before moving forward.