Mitosis in Eukaryotic Cells: A Detailed Overview PDF

Mitosis divides a eukaryotic cell's chromosomes into two identical daughter cells, wherein mitotic cell division produces the cells needed for growth, development, and tissue repair. Mitosis is divided into four stages. Before mitosis begins, the cell goes through a period called interphase. During...

Mitosis divides a eukaryotic cell's chromosomes into two identical daughter cells, wherein mitotic cell division produces the cells needed for growth, development, and tissue repair. Mitosis is divided into four stages. Before mitosis begins, the cell goes through a period called interphase. During interphase, the cell grows, duplicates its DNA, and prepares for division. Although not technically part of mitosis, interphase is an essential precursor to the process. PROPHASE is the stage of chromosome replication. The chromosomes condense and the spindle forms; the nucleus disassembles, the nuclear envelope breaks up, and the spindle fibers attach to the chromosomes. METAPHASE is the step in which the chromosomes formed in prophase move to the middle of the cell. These chromosomes line up along the equator of the cell. ANAPHASE is where the chromosomes separate and move to opposite sides of the cell. Shortening spindle fibers separate the chromosomes. TELOPHASE the nucleus reforms and a membrane appears between each mass of chromosomes. This newly formed membrane divides the cytoplasm. Once this is completed, the two separate cells repeat the process. Cytokinesis is the final stage of cell division, during which the cytoplasm of the cell is divided into two daughter cells. In animal cells, this process is accomplished by a cleavage furrow, which pinches the cell membrane inward until the cell is divided into two.