What is Go (quiescent phase) of cell cycle?

The G₀ phase, or quiescent phase, is a non-dividing state that certain cells enter from the G₁ phase of the cell cycle when they no longer need to proliferate.

Cells in G₀ are metabolically active but do not replicate their DNA or proceed to mitosis.

This phase can be temporary or permanent:

• Temporary G₀: Cells like liver cells may re-enter the cell cycle in response to injury or specific signals.

• Permanent G₀: Fully differentiated cells such as neurons and cardiac muscle cells remain in G₀ indefinitely and do not divide.

Entry into G₀ occurs after the G₁ phase, particularly when cells receive signals to cease division or when they differentiate.

The G₀ phase is crucial for:

• Maintaining tissue function by preventing unnecessary cell division.

• Allowing cells to perform specialized functions without the risk of uncontrolled proliferation.

• Conserving energy and resources in cells that do not need to divide.

In adult organisms, many cells reside in G₀ to maintain tissue stability and function.