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Mitosis and cytokinesis

Cell biology • Cell division

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • Interphase precedes mitosis and involves growth and replication of the entire genome so that each chromosome consists of two identical sister chromatids joined at the centromere.
  • Chromosomes shorten and thicken to allow accurate movement during division.
  • Incomplete or damaged DNA replication prevents correct mitosis and may activate cell-cycle checkpoints.

Flashcards

Test your knowledge with interactive flashcards

Which microscopy images are useful for recognising mitosis in plant cells?

Click to reveal answer

Stained meristem or root-tip preparations clearly show mitotic stages in plant cells.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

DNA replicates in interphase so each chromosome has two sister chromatids before mitosis.

Spindle fibres pull one chromatid copy to each pole; centromere attachment is critical for even segregation.

Telophase restores nuclear membranes; cytokinesis completes physical cell separation.

Animal cytokinesis uses membrane furrowing; plant cytokinesis builds a cell plate because of a rigid wall.

Tissues with rapid growth show many mitotic cells, such as in growth, repair, and meristems.

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