Mitosis Process and Importance

Definition and Purpose

• Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell.
• The purpose of mitosis is to allow for growth, repair, and replacement of cells in multicellular organisms.

Stages of Mitosis

1. Interphase: The cell grows, replicates its DNA, and prepares for cell division.
2. Prophase:
   • Chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes.
   • Nuclear envelope breaks down.
   • Microtubules form spindle fibers.
3. Metaphase:
   • Chromosomes line up at the center of the cell.
   • Each chromosome is attached to a spindle fiber.
4. Anaphase:
   • Sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles.
   • Spindle fibers contract, pulling the sister chromatids apart.
5. Telophase:
   • Nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes.
   • Chromatin uncondenses.
6. Cytokinesis:
   • Cytoplasm divides, and the cell splits into two daughter cells.

Key Features

• Sister chromatids: Identical copies of a chromosome that separate during anaphase.
• Spindle fibers: Microtubules that attach to the centromere of each chromosome, guiding their movement during mitosis.
• Centromere: The region on a chromosome where spindle fibers attach.

Importance of Mitosis

• Allows for rapid cell growth and repair in multicellular organisms.
• Enables the replacement of damaged or old cells.
• Essential for development, growth, and maintenance of tissues.