DNA replication occurs during the S phase (Synthesis phase) of the cell cycle. This phase is part of interphase, where the cell copies all its DNA in preparation for cell division. After the S phase, the cell proceeds to the G2 phase to prepare further for mitosis (M phase), where the cell divides into two daughter cells
. Key points:
- The cell cycle includes G1 (growth), S (DNA replication), G2 (preparation for mitosis), and M (mitosis) phases.
- DNA replication specifically happens in the S phase, ensuring each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.
- This process is tightly regulated with checkpoints to prevent errors and maintain genome integrity
Thus, the phase of the cell cycle during which DNA replicates is the S phase.
