Mitotic Cycle

The mitotic cycle is a set of periodically repeating processes occurring in a cell during the preparation and implementation of mitosis (cell division). It begins with division and ends with division. During the mitotic cycle, a cell goes through several stages, which include preparation for division, division of the nucleus and cytoplasm, and recovery after division.

Preparation for division begins with the activation of genes responsible for the regulation of the mitotic cycle. DNA replication then occurs, providing an exact copy of the cell's genetic material. After this, chromosome condensation occurs, which leads to the formation of a spindle. This spindle is composed of microtubules that ensure the correct orientation of chromosomes during division.

Then division of the nucleus and cytoplasm occurs. The nucleus is divided into two parts, each containing its own copy of the genetic material. The cytoplasm is also divided into two equal parts. After this, the cells become binucleate.

After cell division, cells repair themselves to prepare for the next mitotic cycle. This process includes restoration of the structure of the nucleus and cytoplasm, DNA replication and activation of genes responsible for the regulation of the cycle.

The mitotic cycle is important for cell growth and development. It ensures accurate copying of genetic material and uniform distribution of chromosomes between daughter cells. In addition, the mitotic cycle plays an important role in the regulation of the cell cycle, which determines the time required to progress through all stages of the mitotic cycle and allows cells to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The mitotic cycle is a set of regularly repeated events that occur within a cell during mitosis, the process that divides prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Mitosis is necessary for reproduction. It also causes cytokinesis, a process that divides a cell into two daughter cells. We often encounter mitosis in our daily life, especially in human cells when they start growing to become adults or when we want to get rid of cancer cells.

The mitotic cycle includes four phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase and telophase. Prophase consists of twelve stages, each of which has its own name.

Prophase: During this stage, the DNA is very constricted and wrapped tightly into the cell body. The nuclear membranes are shed and all the other cells within it begin to prepare to copy their genetic materials.

Metaphase: In this phase, cells are in the middle of the cycle. This is the moment when the cell reaches its maximum degree of elongation. In metaphase, the chromosomes move to the middle of the cell, and they are visually combined with the help of cellular microtubules. During prophase and metaphase, genetic events occur that are largely determined by how chromosomal structural elements are assembled, rearranged, and integrated into a single DNA molecule at the end. Although this is the scientific name for the stage, it is known as the “Metaphase Cycle.” This happens because the chromosomes in the middle of the cell appear bright and motionless—thus giving the appearance of spinning motionlessly under a microscope.

Anaphase and telophase. In both phases, DNA molecules and chromosomes break apart, becoming free RNA and replicative but inactive parts. These small RNA molecules then combine again to form molecules that continue to work in the new cell. In addition, the cytoplasm changes from one cell to another, cells divide between daughter cells. Each stage is necessary for the survival of the organism, otherwise cell division will lead to complete dysfunction and death.