What happens if DNA damage is found during the G2 checkpoint?

When DNA damage is detected during the G2 checkpoint, the appropriate response for the cell is to undergo apoptosis, which is a programmed form of cell death. This is a protective mechanism to prevent cells with damaged or mutated DNA from dividing and potentially leading to the development of cancer or other diseases. The G2 checkpoint serves as a critical quality control step that ensures all genetic material is intact and properly replicated before the cell enters mitosis.

If the integrity of the DNA is compromised, apoptosis is triggered to eliminate the damaged cell, thereby maintaining the overall health and genetic fidelity of the organism. This process highlights the importance of cellular surveillance mechanisms that monitor for DNA integrity and initiate corrective actions when needed, ensuring that only healthy cells continue to proliferate.