MITOSIS 

Mitosis is a fundamental process of cell division that occurs in eukaryotic cells to produce two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It is a crucial mechanism for growth, development, and tissue repair in multicellular organisms.

Let's explore the main stages of mitosis:

• Interphase: This is the preparatory phase before mitosis where the cell undergoes growth, DNA replication, and prepares for division. It consists of three subphases: G1 (gap 1), S (synthesis), and G2 (gap 2

• Prophase: The first stage of mitosis, during which the chromatin condenses and becomes visible as distinct chromosomes. The nuclear membrane starts to break down, and the mitotic spindle forms, extending from the centrosomes located at opposite poles of the cell.

• Prometaphase: The nuclear membrane completely dissolves, and the spindle fibers interact with the condensed chromosomes. Protein structures called kinetochores form on the centromeres of each chromosome, attaching to the spindle fibers.

• Metaphase: The chromosomes align themselves along the equatorial plane of the cell, forming a single line called the metaphase plate. This arrangement ensures that each daughter cell will receive an equal number of chromosomes during cell division.

• Anaphase: The centromeres divide, separating the sister chromatids. The spindle fibers contract, pulling the chromatids toward opposite poles of the cell. This ensures that each daughter cell will receive one copy of each chromosome.

• Telophase: The separated chromatids reach the poles of the cell, and nuclear membranes begin to form around them, creating two distinct nuclei. The chromosomes begin to decondense, and the spindle fibers disassemble.

• Cytokinesis: This is the final stage of cell division, during which the cytoplasm divides, resulting in the formation of two daughter cells. In animal cells, a cleavage furrow forms and deepens, eventually pinching the cell into two. In plant cells, a cell plate forms in the middle, which develops into a new cell wall, separating the two daughter cells.

The two resulting daughter cells are identical to each other and to the original parent cell in terms of their genetic information. They enter interphase and continue their respective cell cycles.

Mitosis is a tightly regulated process controlled by various checkpoints and molecular signals to ensure accurate distribution of chromosomes and maintain genetic stability. Mistakes during mitosis can lead to chromosomal abnormalities and contribute to conditions such as cancer.