AP Bio - Ch.9: The Cell Cycle - Mitotic (M) Phase

Mitosis and cytokinesis. Recall that the later phases, especially past the M-checkpoint (point before anaphase) overlaps Cytokinesis.

G₂ phase

not included in mitotic phase, but precedes and prepares for it

• Centrosomes (organizes microtubules/spindle) form

• Nuclei is still present (duplicated DNA are inside)

Prophase

• Chromosomes form

• Nucleus disappears

• Spindles form from centrosomes and centrosomes move opposite from each other

Metaphase

• Longest phase

• Chromosome align on equator (metaphase plate)

• Kinetochore protein anchor forms → attaches chromatids to spindle fiber

Anaphase

• Shortest phase

• Sister chromatids move apart

• Cell elongates

Telophase

• Nuclei reappear → Two nuclei formed

• Chromosomes turn back into chromatin

• occurs synonymously with cytokinesis

Cytokinesis

• (in animal cells) form a cleavage

• Cytoplasm divides

• Two cells are formed