The cell cycle comprises a group of biological events that determine the metabolic activity of any cell, as well as its division and the generation of new daughter cells. It is involved in every cellular process, such asproliferation and differentiation. It has been shown that several molecular elements regulate the cell cycle, and that alterations in any of its phases and/or regulators could give rise to physiologic deficiencies, and even death. In mammals, the haematopoietic tissue is one of the most active in terms of cell replacement; thus, a tight cell cycle control, particularly at the level of stem and progenitors cells is crucial for optimal blood cell production. In the present article, we give a comprehensive overview of the major mechanisms and regulatory, molecules that participate in the cell cycle of mammalian cells, with particular emphasis on its role in the biology of primitive cells of the hematopoietic system.