Cell Cycles

By Lindsay Corbould

First Interphase

During Interphase (the longest part of the cell cycle) DNA replicates, proteins are produced and the centrioles divide.

Prophase

During prophase the nucleus starts to fade and the replicated DNA and necessary proteins (chromatin) form chromosomes. Each chromosome is made of two chromatids which contain the same genetic information for when the cell splits.

Premetaphase

During premetaphase the nucleus has completely faded and the chromosomes start to line up in the middle in order to be split for the sister cells.

Metaphase

During metaphase the spindle fibers create tension causing the chromosomes to align in the center of the cell

Anaphase

During anaphase the spindle fibers shorten and the chromosomes start moving to opposite ends of the cell

Telophase

During telophase the spindle fibers that pulled the chromosomes to opposite ends of the cell disappear

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Cytokinesis

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Spindle fibers are only left in the overlap where the contractile ring separates it into two sister cells

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Interphase

As the cells return to interphase the whole process starts again