What occurs during the G1 phase of the cell cycle?

During the G1 phase of the cell cycle, the cell undergoes a period of growth following mitosis. This phase is crucial for the cell as it prepares for DNA synthesis that will occur in the subsequent S phase.

During G1, the cell increases in size and begins to synthesize various organelles and proteins that are necessary for DNA replication and eventual cell division. This period allows the cell to accumulate the resources and energy needed for the next steps in the cycle. The increase in organelle supply is particularly important for ensuring that daughter cells, once division occurs, have the necessary cellular machinery to function properly.

The activities taking place in G1 set the stage for the S phase, where DNA replication occurs, but those processes are not part of G1. Instead, G1 focuses on growth and preparation, making the increase in size and organelle supply the defining characteristic of this phase.