The G2/M checkpoint monitors the completion of DNA replication and checks whether the cell can safely initiate mitosis and separate sister chromatids. This checkpoint is particularly important in cells exposed to ionizing radiation.
Cells damaged by ionizing radiation activate the G2/M checkpoint and arrest in G2; defects in this checkpoint give rise to chromosomal abnormalities.
See also
- cell-cycle checkpoint
References
Löbrich M, Jeggo PA. The impact of a negligent G2/M checkpoint on genomic instability and cancer induction. Nat Rev Cancer. 2007 Nov;7(11):861-9. PMID: 17943134