Mitotic phase

Definition
noun
The phase in the life cycle of a cell highlighted by chromosomal separation resulting into two identical sets in two nuclei
Supplement
The cell cycle of eukaryotes is a cyclical series of biological events that certain asexual cells go through. In essence, the cell cycle is highlighted by a sequence of events such as the duplication of DNA via DNA replication, in preparation to cell division wherein the parent cell divides and gives rise to two genetically identical daughter cells. The cell cycle is comprised of these fundamental events: (1) resting phase (Gap 0), (2) interphase (Gap 1, S phase, Gap 2), and (3) cell division (i.e. mitotic phase and cytokinesis). The interphase is the period prior to cell division. Thus, it would entail two major events, particularly cell growth (during gap phases) and DNA replication (during S phase). During G₂ phase of the interphase, apart from growing further in cell size, the cell readies itself for cell division. It has a control mechanism called G₂-M DNA damage checkpoint that ensures the cell is ready for cell division. Following Gap 2, the cell enters the mitotic phase. The mitotic phase is the phase in the cell cycle that is highlighted by chromosomal separation resulting into two identical sets in two nuclei. During the mitotic phase, there are four series of events that gave rise to four major phases: (1) prophase, (2) metaphase, (3) anaphase, and (4) telophase.
Abbreviation / Acronym: M phase
See also:

• cell
• cell division
• interphase
• cell cycle
• mitosis
• cytokinesis