Phases of Mitosis

Overview of Mitosis

• Type of Reproduction: Asexual (somatic reproduction).
• Difference from Meiosis: Mitosis results in two daughter cells, meiosis results in four.
• Chromosome Number: Daughter cells have the same number of chromosomes as the mother cell (diploid number).
• Genetic Identity: Daughter cells are genetically identical to the mother cell.
• DNA Replication: Occurs in the synthesis phase prior to mitosis.

Phases of Mitosis

Mitosis is divided into four main phases:

1. Prophase

• Duration: Longest phase of mitosis.
• Chromosome Condensation: Chromosomes condense and are composed of two sister chromatids connected by a centromere.
• Nuclear Envelope Breakdown: Allows chromosomes to divide.
• Mitotic Spindle Formation: Begins, allowing attachment to the centromere.
• Centrosome Movement: Centrosomes move to opposite poles of the cell.

2. Metaphase

• Cell Elongation: Cell begins to elongate.
• Chromosome Alignment: Chromosomes align at the cell's equator, forming the metaphase plate.
• Spindle Attachment: Mitotic spindle attaches to centromeres.

3. Anaphase

• Chromosome Separation: Sister chromatids split and become individual chromosomes.
• Movement to Poles: Chromatids move to opposite poles of the cell.

4. Telophase

• Chromosome Arrival: Chromatids reach the opposite poles and cease movement.
• De-condensation: Chromosomes become less condensed.
• Nuclear Envelope Reformation: Reforms around the chromosomes.
• Mitotic Spindle Breakdown: No longer needed and disassembles.

Cytokinesis

• Division Process: Occurs after telophase, involving the division of the cytoplasm to create two daughter cells.

Importance of Mitosis

• Growth: Essential for organismal growth.
• Cell Replacement: Replaces worn-out cells.
• Healing: Critical for healing and repairing tissues.

Mitosis is a crucial process that ensures the genetic material is accurately divided between offspring cells, maintaining genetic consistency across cells.