Vocab Entry

Cell division-

the process by which cells multiply involving both nuclear and cytoplasmic division.





chromatid-

one of two identical chromosomal strands

into which a chromosome splits longitudinally preparatory to cell division.

Centromere-

a specialized structure on the chromosome,
appearing during cell division as the constricted central region

where the two chromatids are held together and form an X shape.

Interphase-
the period of the cell cycle during which the nucleus is not undergoing

division, typically occurring between mitotic or meiotic divisions.

Cell Cycle-

The series of events involving the growth,
replication, and division of a eukaryotic cell.

Mitosis-
cell division in which the nucleus divides into

nuclei containing the same number of chromosomes.

Prophase-

The first stage of mitosis, during which the chromosomes
condense and become visible, the nuclear membrane breaks down,

and the spindle apparatus forms at opposite poles of the cell.

Centriole-

one of a pair of small cylindrical cell organelle

near the nucleus in animal cells; composed of nine triplet

microtubules and form the asters during mitosis.

Spindle-

spindle-shaped structure, composed of microtubules,

that forms near the cell nucleus during mitosis or meiosis and,

as it divides, draws the chromosomes to opposite poles of the cell.

Metaphase-

The stage of mitosis and meiosis, following

prophase and preceding anaphase, during which the

chromosomes are aligned along the metaphase plate.

Anaphase-

the stage of meiosis or mitosis when

chromosomes move toward opposite ends of the nuclear

spindle.

Telophase-
the final stage of meiosis or mitosis, in which the separated

chromosomes reach the opposite poles of the dividing

cell and the nuclei of the daughter cells form around the

two sets of chromosomes.

Cytokinesis-

The division of the cell cytoplasm that

usually follows mitotic or meiotic division of the nucleus.

Cyclin-

any of a group of proteins active in controlling

the cell cycle and in initiating DNA synthesis.

Cancer-

any malignant growth or tumor caused by

abnormal and uncontrolled cell division; it may

spread to other parts of the body through the

lymphatic system or the blood stream.