Disruptions during the S phase can have severe implications. If DNA replication is compromised, it can result in genomic instability, which is a hallmark of cancer. This instability can lead to cell death or uncontrolled cell division. Additionally, S phase disruptions can trigger cell cycle checkpoints, leading to cell cycle arrest or apoptosis if the damage is irreparable. Understanding these pathways is crucial in toxicology for identifying potential carcinogens and other harmful agents.
