All Cell Cycle Checkpoints are Similar in Which Way

Question

All cell cycle checkpoints are similar in which way?
A) They respond to the same cyclins.
B) They utilize the same Cdks.
C) They give the go-ahead signal to progress to the next checkpoint.
D) They each have only one cyclin/Cdk complex.
E) They activate or inactivate other proteins.

Accepted Answer

All cell cycle checkpoints utilize a network of proteins, including cyclins and Cdks, to regulate progression through the cell cycle. However, the main function of checkpoints is to detect DNA damage or other problems that could potentially lead to aberrant cell division. Once a checkpoint detects an issue, it can activate or inactivate various proteins to prevent the cell from progressing until the problem is resolved. Therefore, all checkpoints have the ability to activate or inactivate other proteins to regulate the cell cycle.