Telophase

Definition

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis, where the chromosomes reach the opposite poles of the cell and begin to de-condense back into chromatin. During this phase, the nuclear envelope reforms around each set of chromosomes, resulting in two distinct nuclei in one cell. Telophase is critical for ensuring that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic material following division.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During telophase, the spindle fibers that helped separate the chromosomes break down and disappear.
2. The nuclear envelope re-forms around each set of separated sister chromatids, which are now considered individual chromosomes.
3. Telophase is often followed by cytokinesis, which completes the process of cell division by splitting the cytoplasm and forming two separate cells.
4. In plant cells, a cell plate forms during telophase, which eventually develops into a new cell wall separating the two daughter cells.
5. The duration of telophase can vary depending on the type of cell and its specific requirements for division.

Review Questions

• How does telophase contribute to ensuring genetic consistency between daughter cells?
  • Telophase plays a crucial role in maintaining genetic consistency because it is the phase where the chromosomes are separated and enclosed within newly formed nuclear envelopes. As the chromosomes de-condense back into chromatin, each daughter cell is ensured an identical set of genetic material. This accurate distribution is vital for proper cellular function and maintaining genetic integrity through successive generations.
• Compare and contrast telophase with cytokinesis regarding their roles in cell division.
  • Telophase and cytokinesis are both essential steps in cell division but serve different functions. Telophase involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope around separated chromosomes and their de-condensation back into chromatin. In contrast, cytokinesis is the physical process that divides the cytoplasm and organelles into two separate daughter cells. While telophase prepares the nuclei for future cellular functions, cytokinesis completes the overall process of cell division.
• Evaluate the significance of telophase within the broader context of cellular reproduction and growth.
  • Telophase is significant in cellular reproduction and growth as it ensures that each daughter cell inherits an exact copy of genetic information necessary for function and development. This phase not only safeguards genomic integrity but also sets the stage for cellular growth by allowing for appropriate gene expression in each new nucleus. Understanding telophase's role highlights how critical accurate cell division is for processes like tissue repair, organismal growth, and overall homeostasis in living organisms.

Related terms

Mitosis: A process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell, consisting of several phases including prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

Cytokinesis: The process that occurs after telophase, where the cytoplasm of a parental cell is divided into two daughter cells, completing cell division.

Chromatin: The complex of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells; during telophase, chromatin re-forms from the condensed chromosomes.