Cell Division by Mitosis and Meisosis

Mitosis and Meiosis are two types of cell division.
Mitosis is a process where one cell divides into two identical cells, each with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
The stages of mitosis are Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase and Telophase.
In Prophase, chromosomes become visible and pair up, the nuclear membrane breaks down.
During Metaphase, the chromosomes line up along the centre of the cell.
In Anaphase, the chromosomes separate, each new chromosome moving to opposite ends of the cell.
Telophase is the last phase of mitosis, where two nuclei are formed, each with the same number of chromosomes as the original cell.
Meiosis, on the other hand, is a type of cell division that results in four non-identical daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell.
Meiosis only occurs in the production of gametes (sex cells) in animals, plants and fungi.
The stages of meiosis are divided into Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each of these stages further consist of Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase and Telophase.
In Prophase I, the chromosomes come together in pairs in a process known as synapsis.
During Metaphase I, these pairs align at the middle of the cell.
During Anaphase I, the chromosome pairs separate with one chromosome going to each end of the cell.
Telophase I involves the separation into two cells, each with a complete set of chromosomes.
The stages of Meiosis II are similar to those of a mitotic division, resulting in four genetically unique cells at the end of Telophase II.
The primary function of mitosis is growth and repair, while the main function of meiosis is to provide genetic diversity through sexual reproduction.
Stem cells have the unique property of being able to develop into any type of cell in the body, and are produced by mitosis.
Stem cell research offers potential treatment for a variety of conditions including Parkinson’s disease and diabetes. It is, however, not without its ethical considerations.
It’s also important to know that uncontrolled cell division can lead to cancerous growths.
When revising, remember to understand the stages of the cell cycle, the significance of stem cells and the basic differences between mitosis and meiosis.