Cell cycle checkpoints -- molecular background.

Cell cycle checkpoints are the surveillance mechanisms monitoring both the fidelity and accuracy of DNA replication and the segregation of chromosomes. By delaying progression through the cell cycle, checkpoints provide more time for repair before the critical phases of DNA replication and ensure the proper segregation of chromosomes during mitosis. The paper provides basic information about the molecular mechanisms operating in various cell cycle checkpoints activated by DNA damage or disturbances in mitotic spindle assembly.