Telophase (Gr. Telos — Thread, Phasis — phase)

Telophase (from the Greek Telos - end and Phasis - phase) is the last of the four stages of mitosis, the process of nuclear cell division in multicellular organisms. During telophase, the final separation of the genetic material and cytoplasm that was copied in the previous stages of mitosis occurs.

The main events that occur in telophase are the arrangement of the two sets of chromosomes formed during metaphase and anaphase on opposite sides of the nucleus, the formation of two nuclear envelopes arising from the nuclear core, and the division of the cytoplasm between the two daughter cells.

The arrangement of chromosomes on opposite sides of the nucleus occurs due to the action of mitotic fibers, which attract chromosomes to themselves, arranging them along the metaphase plane. The mitotic fibers then contract, pushing the chromosomes to opposite sides of the nucleus.

Immediately after this, the formation of nuclear membranes occurs. They are formed from a nuclear core, which consists of two parallel rows of nuclear plates interconnected by nuclear pores. Nuclear pores ensure the exchange of substances between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, and also regulate the transport of molecules through the nuclear envelope.

The last stage of telophase is the division of the cytoplasm between the two daughter cells. This process is called cytokinesis. During cytokinesis, a ring protein structure contracts that forms around the central part of the cell in the space between the two nuclei. This leads to the division of the cytoplasm into two equal parts, each of which contains one nucleus.

Telophase is an important process for the proper separation of genetic material and ensuring accurate copying of cellular components in daughter cells. Failure to perform telophase can lead to various pathologies, including cancer and genetic disorders.