Telophase

Definition

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis, where the chromosomes reach opposite poles of the cell and begin to de-condense, leading to the formation of two distinct nuclei. This phase is crucial as it marks the conclusion of nuclear division and sets the stage for cytokinesis, the process that ultimately divides the cytoplasm and completes cell division. During telophase, the nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of chromosomes, and the nucleolus reappears, indicating that the cell is preparing to enter interphase.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During telophase, the chromosomes de-condense back into chromatin, making them less visible under a microscope.
2. The nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes, creating two distinct nuclei in one cell.
3. Telophase is often accompanied by the reappearance of the nucleolus within each nucleus, signaling the end of nuclear division.
4. This phase is typically followed by cytokinesis, which divides the cytoplasm and completes the overall process of cell division.
5. Telophase is essential for maintaining genetic continuity, as it ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of chromosomes.

Review Questions

• What key events occur during telophase that distinguish it from other phases of mitosis?
  • During telophase, several key events take place that clearly distinguish it from other mitotic phases. Chromosomes reach opposite poles of the cell and start to de-condense back into chromatin, making them less visible. The nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes, resulting in two distinct nuclei. Additionally, the nucleolus reappears in each nucleus, marking a transition towards interphase. These events collectively signify the end of mitosis and prepare the cell for cytokinesis.
• Discuss how telophase contributes to the overall process of cell division and why it is critical for genetic stability.
  • Telophase is critical to the overall process of cell division as it marks the conclusion of mitosis by ensuring that each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes. The reformation of the nuclear envelope around separated chromosomes is essential for protecting genetic material. As chromosomes de-condense back into chromatin, cellular functions can resume normal activity in each daughter cell. This careful orchestration in telophase helps maintain genetic stability across generations by preventing chromosome loss or mutations during division.
• Evaluate how disruptions in telophase could lead to cellular abnormalities or diseases such as cancer.
  • Disruptions in telophase can lead to significant cellular abnormalities that may result in diseases such as cancer. If telophase fails to properly complete—such as through issues with chromosome segregation or improper reformation of the nuclear envelope—cells may end up with an unequal distribution of genetic material. This aneuploidy can trigger uncontrolled cell growth or lead to malfunctions in cellular processes. Furthermore, if cytokinesis does not occur after telophase due to errors in this phase, cells may become multinucleated or form tumors, contributing to cancer development.

Related terms

Chromatids: The identical halves of a duplicated chromosome that are joined together by a centromere until they are separated during anaphase.

Cytokinesis: The process that follows mitosis, where the cytoplasm divides, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

Prophase: The first phase of mitosis, where chromatin condenses into visible chromosomes and the nuclear envelope begins to break down.