What is a key activity occurring during Gap 1 (G1) phase of the cell cycle?

During the Gap 1 (G1) phase of the cell cycle, one of the key activities is protein synthesis. This stage occurs after a cell has divided, and it is focused on preparing the cell for DNA synthesis that will happen in the next phase (S phase). In G1, cells grow in size, produce RNA, and synthesize proteins that are necessary for DNA replication and cell division.

The cell also engages in various metabolic processes and begins to carry out its specialized functions. This phase allows the cell to accumulate the resources it needs, such as nucleotides for DNA synthesis and different proteins required for cell division and function. It is crucial for overall cell and tissue health, ensuring that when the cell enters the S phase, it is well-prepared to replicate its DNA efficiently.

In contrast, DNA replication occurs in the S phase, cell division takes place in the M phase, and chromosome duplication is also part of the S phase once DNA replication has begun. Thus, protein synthesis is distinctive to G1 as it provides the building blocks for the subsequent phases of the cell cycle.