Mitosis

Question 1

What is mitosis?

Answer 1

The process where replicated chromosomes partition equally into the two daughter cells. Two genetically identical daughter cells are produced.
Each chromosome is first replicated to produce two sister chromatids to maintain chromosome number.

Question 2

What are the stages of the cell cycle?

Answer 2

Interphase, comprised of G1- growth, S- replication of DNA and G2. Mitosis- replication of the nucleus. Cytokinesis (not part of mitosis)- cell division.

Question 3

What are the stages of mitosis and what happens during each stage?

Answer 3

Prophase- DNA condenses and the nuclear membrane breaks down. Spindle fibres protruding from the centrioles attach to the centromeres of the sister chromatids.
Metaphase- Chromosomes align along the equator of the cell. The genetic profile is normally obtained at this stage.
Anaphase- the spindle fibres shorten, pulling apart the sister chromatids while other spindle fibres push against each other to stretch the cell.
Telophase- two new nuclear membranes form.

Question 4

What is the purpose of capping telomeres?

Answer 4

To prevent damage by nucleases.