What is the role of checkpoints in the cell cycle?

Checkpoints in the cell cycle play a critical role in ensuring the proper progression of cell division. They act as control mechanisms that monitor and regulate the conditions of the cell at various stages of the cycle. Specifically, checkpoints assess whether the cell is ready to proceed to the next phase of the cycle based on factors such as DNA integrity, cell size, and nutritional status.

By controlling the progression of the cell cycle, these checkpoints help prevent the division of damaged or unprepared cells, which could lead to genetic instability and contribute to the development of cancer. If a problem is detected at a checkpoint, the cell cycle can be halted to allow for repairs or to eliminate the damaged cell through processes such as apoptosis. Thus, the primary function of checkpoints is to ensure that only healthy, fully prepared cells progress through the cycle, ultimately maintaining cellular integrity and function.