Maturation Promoting Factor (MPF) is a regulatory molecule that plays a crucial role in cell cycle control, specifically in the transition of a cell from the G2 phase to the M phase. It is a complex consisting of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) and cyclin proteins.
During the cell cycle, various checkpoints ensure proper control and progression of cell division. One of these checkpoints is the G2/M checkpoint, which verifies that the DNA has replicated correctly before entering the M phase. Maturation Promoting Factor serves as a key regulator at this checkpoint, promoting the initiation of mitosis by initiating various biochemical events within the cell.
MPF activates the processes required for cell division by phosphorylating target proteins. CDK, an enzyme, phosphorylates proteins responsible for initiating the formation of the mitotic spindle and chromosome condensation. Cyclin proteins, which bind to CDK, regulate its activity and availability.
The term "maturation" in MPF refers to the transition of a cell from a non-dividing state to a dividing state, specifically from the G2 phase to the M phase. "Promoting factor" signifies the role of MPF in activating various processes required for cell division.
Overall, Maturation Promoting Factor is a critical regulator of the cell cycle, specifically the transition from G2 to M phase. Its activation triggers a series of events necessary for cellular division, ensuring proper progression through the cell cycle.
