NCIt definition : The complex series of phenomena, occurring between the end of one cell division and
the end of the next, by which cellular material is divided between daughter cells.
The cell cycle is an ordered set of events, culminating in cell growth and division
into two daughter cells. The stages of cell cycle includes G1-S-G2-M. The G1 stage
stands for GAP 1. The S stage stands for Synthesis. This is the stage when DNA replication
occurs. The G2 stage stands for GAP 2. The M stage stands for mitosis, and is when
nuclear (chromosomes separate) and cytoplasmic (cytokinesis) division occur.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: The process a cell goes through each time it divides. The cell cycle consists
of a series of steps during which the chromosomes and other cell material double to
make two copies. The cell then divides into two daughter cells, each receiving one
copy of the doubled material. The cell cycle is complete when each daughter cell is
surrounded by its own outer membrane.;