Karyokinesis

Definition

Karyokinesis is the process of nuclear division in a cell during mitosis or meiosis. It ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Karyokinesis occurs before cytokinesis and is crucial for proper cell division.
2. It involves the formation of the mitotic spindle, which separates chromosomes into daughter nuclei.
3. The stages of karyokinesis include prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.
4. Errors in karyokinesis can lead to conditions such as cancer due to abnormal chromosome numbers.
5. Karyokinesis is tightly regulated by a series of checkpoints within the cell cycle.

Review Questions

• What are the four stages of karyokinesis?
• How does karyokinesis differ from cytokinesis?
• Why is accurate karyokinesis important for cellular function?

Related terms

Cytokinesis: The process that divides the cytoplasm of a parental cell into two daughter cells, occurring after karyokinesis.

Mitotic Spindle: A structure composed of microtubules that segregates chromosomes into daughter cells during karyokinesis.

Cell Cycle Checkpoints: Mechanisms that monitor and regulate the progress of a cell through the cell cycle to ensure proper division.