Bio.1.2.2
Analyze how cells grow and reproduce in terms of
interphase, mitosis and cytokinesis.
interphase, mitosis and cytokinesis.
How cells reproduce
Mitosis is the process in which cells reproduce. There are many steps in the process of mitosis. These steps include Interphase, Prophase, Prometaphase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase, and Cytokinesis. It is asexual reproduction.
Interphase
Interphase is the longest period of the complete cell cycle. This is where DNA replicates, centrioles divide, and proteins are produced. In mammalian tissue this part of the process usually lasts 12 to 24 hours. The cells increase in size and the cell in synthesizing RNA.
Prophase
During prophase, the nucleolus does away and the replicated DNA condenses and turns into chromosomes. Each replicated chromosome is made up of two chromatids and both contain the exact same genetic information. Microtubules of the cytoskeleton then disassemble. The building blocks of the microtubules are then used to grow the mitotic spindle.
Prometaphase
There is no longer a recognizable nucleus in prometaphase because the nuclear envelope breaks down. Some of the mitotic spindle fibers stretch from the centrosomes. Then they attach to bundles of protein on chromosomes, called kinetochores, where sister chromatids join.
Metaphase
During metaphase, all chromosomes align in the middle of the cell because of tension that were applied on the spindle fibers.
Anaphase
The spindle fibers shorten causing the kinotochores to separate during anaphase. This allows the chromatids to be pulled apart toward separate ends of the cell.
Telophase
In telophase, the spindle fibers go away and the chromatids arrive at the separate sides of the cell.
Cytokinesis
During cytokinesis, the spindle fibers the were not attached to chromosomes begin to break down until a small overlap is left. Here, a contractile ring completely separates the two daughter cells. Then, the microtubules reorganize so that they can go back to interphase to start all over again.
The button below will link you to the website "cellsalive.com". In this website is a simulation that will take you step by step through the stages of mitosis and will explain all of them along the way. Have fun!