Mitosis

Mitosis is a process of cell division that occurs in eukaryotic cells to produce two identical daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. It is a crucial process for growth, development, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction in multicellular organisms.

Here’s a simplified overview of the stages of mitosis:

1. Interphase: The cell prepares for division by growing, carrying out its normal functions, and replicating its DNA. The DNA is duplicated during the S (synthesis) phase of interphase, resulting in two identical copies of each chromosome called sister chromatids.
2. Prophase: The chromatin (loosely packed DNA) condenses into visible chromosomes. The nuclear envelope starts to break down, and a structure called the mitotic spindle begins to form. The spindle consists of microtubules that will help separate the sister chromatids later in the process.
3. Metaphase: The chromosomes line up at the center of the cell along the metaphase plate. Each chromosome is attached to spindle fibers originating from opposite poles of the cell.
4. Anaphase: The sister chromatids separate and are pulled apart by the shortening of the spindle fibers. Each chromatid, now called a chromosome, moves toward opposite ends of the cell.
5. Telophase: The chromosomes reach the opposite poles of the cell. Nuclear envelopes start to reform around the chromosomes, and the spindle fibers begin to disassemble. The chromosomes start to uncoil, and the cell prepares for division.
6. Cytokinesis: The cell physically divides into two daughter cells, each with a complete set of chromosomes. In animal cells, a cleavage furrow forms and deepens until the cell membrane pinches in, separating the two daughter cells. In plant cells, a new cell wall is formed between the daughter cells.

After cytokinesis, each daughter cell enters its own interphase, resuming its normal functions or potentially proceeding through another round of division.

Mitosis ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes and genetic information identical to the parent cell. This process maintains the genetic stability and continuity of cells and is essential for growth, tissue repair, and reproduction in multicellular organisms.