What major events occur during anaphase of mitosis?

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1. During anaphase of mitosis, the paired chromosomes, known as sister chromatids, are separated and pulled towards opposite poles of the cell. This is facilitated by the shortening of microtubules attached to the chromatids.
2. The spindle fibers, which are structures made up of microtubules and associated proteins, play a crucial role in the movement of chromosomes. They begin to pull the sister chromatids apart by attaching to the centromeres, the central part of each chromosome.
3. As the sister chromatids are pulled apart, each moves towards the opposite ends of the cell, ensuring that each new cell will receive an identical set of chromosomes.
4. The movement of the chromatids is coordinated and regulated by various molecular motors and cell cycle checkpoints to ensure accurate distribution of genetic material.
5. Anaphase is followed by telophase and cytokinesis, where the cell completes its division into two separate cells, each with a complete set of chromosomes.

Key Concepts

Mitosis

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Each stage plays a crucial role in ensuring that the genetic material is accurately replicated and distributed, maintaining the chromosome number in the daughter cells.

Anaphase

Anaphase is a critical stage of mitosis where the sister chromatids, which are duplicated chromosomes, are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell. This separation is facilitated by the spindle fibers, which shorten and exert force on the chromatids. Anaphase ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes, which is essential for genetic stability.

Spindle Apparatus

The spindle apparatus is a structure composed of microtubules that orchestrates the movement of chromosomes during mitosis. It forms during prophase and is responsible for aligning chromosomes at the metaphase plate and separating them during anaphase. Proper function of the spindle apparatus is vital for accurate chromosome segregation, preventing aneuploidy in the resulting daughter cells.