gap 2 stage

cytology

Also known as: G2 stage

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July 19, 2026

Quick Summary

The G2 phase is a critical period in the cell cycle, occurring after DNA replication (S phase) and before cell division (mitosis) begins. During this stage, the cell prepares for division by growing and synthesizing necessary proteins.12

The cell cycle is an ordered sequence of events that includes:
* G1 phase: The cell grows.
* S phase: The cell copies its DNA.
* G2 phase: The cell prepares to divide.
* M phase: The cell divides (mitosis).2

Cells have checkpoints, including one at the end of G2, to ensure DNA is undamaged before division. If damage is detected, the cell may undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis).2

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cell cycle
…stage), prepares to divide (gap 2, or G2, stage), and divides (mitosis, or M, stage). The stages G1, S, and G2 make up interphase, which accounts for the span between cell divisions. On the basis of the stimulatory and inhibitory messages a cell receives, it “decides” whether it should…
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…stage), prepares to divide (gap 2, or G2, stage), and divides (mitosis, or M, stage). The stages G1, S, and G2 make up interphase, which accounts for the span between cell divisions. On the basis of the stimulatory and inhibitory messages a cell receives, it “decides” whether it should…
Read More