2.2 Mitosis
2026-03-04 23:32
Status: #new
2.2 Mitosis
Cell Life Cycle
Stages Of Mitosis
Prophase
- Once Mitosis starts, Chromatin condense into Sister chromatids linked together by a Centromere (by coiling together the DNA)
- There is a pair of centrosomes (consisting of two centrioles each)
- The centrosomes and the network of microtubles will form the mitotic spindle
- A radial array of microtubles begins to form around each centrosome (Aster)
- As these microtubules grow, they pull the centrosomes apart.
- The nucleus then undergoes lysis (breaks) and the microtubules cover the former nuclear's area.
- Certain microtubules from the centrosomes known as Kinetochore microtubules will attach to each chromosome at the centromere.
- Polar Microtubules push the centrosomes apart as they grow
- Astral Microtubles they anchor the spindle apparatus
Metaphase
- This phase begins once the centrosomes are at the poles of the cell
- Aster Microtubules attach to the cell membrane
- All chromosomes are lined up at the metaphase plate.
- M Checkpoint ensures that the sister chromatids are attached to the opposite ends of the mitotic spindle.
- This happens after all kinetochore's are attached to the spindle
Anaphase
- The enzyme "seperase" cleaves the cohesins (Protein that holds together sister chromatids) that binds the chromatids together
- The kinetochores pull the chromatids apart
- This ensures we get two separate sets of the genome (the entire instruction set for an organism)
- The chromosomes are then pulled by motor proteins attached to the kinetochores to move them towards opposite ends of the cell.
- Microtubules begin to disassemble as the chromosomes start moving
- Cells additionally elongate during this process
Telophase
- Two new nuclei are formed (rebuilt from nucleus fragments from the lysis)
- The chromosomes decondense back into chromatin
- The microtubules of the mitotic spindle fall apart
Mitosis is complete!
Cytokinesis
- Cleavage furrow at metaphase plate forms
- Caused by actin microfilaments that pull the cell inwards
- Eventually pinches the cell in two